Sunday’s filings provide a snapshot of the continued financial backing of Trump’s loyal supporter base. He formed Save America shortly after losing the election last November. Even as the allegations of fraud were thrown out by his legal team in front of courts across the country, Trump aggressively sought out new donations and begged his donors to help fund his “ election defense. ”
But the first and largest cut in contributions went to Save America, a key vehicle for its post-presidential political activity. He can use the executive PAC to donate to other candidates, as well as to fund travel and staff. Federal rules put few restrictions on leadership participation spending, which campaign watchdogs warn could become slush funds for politicians.
Save America has spent little in the waning weeks of 2020, with just over $ 200,000 to cover merchant fees on the online fundraising platform, WinRed, as per the documents filed with the Federal Election Commission. The registrations relate to activities between November 24 and December 31.
While Save America spent little in the last weeks of 2020, Trump’s campaign committee has brought in millions in spending. They included more than $ 4.4 million from about two dozen law firms and more than $ 5 million in ads that the campaign classified as recount.
Millions more could be available for Trump’s political operation as he works to expand his influence over the party.
His campaign account started in January with $ 10.7 million in cash and just over $ 2.7 million in debt, the filings show. The Trump Make America Great Again Committee – a joint fundraising committee that included the Republican National Committee, Trump’s campaign, and Save America – started the year with more than $ 59.8 million in the treasury – some of which could go to Trump’s new PAC.
Save America has already become part of Trump’s political infrastructure.
After meeting last week with House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy of California, Save America issued a statement stating, “President Trump’s popularity has never been stronger than it is today, and his approval means more than perhaps any endorsement on any moment. “