Major donors to Donald Trump’s inaugural committee face a steeper price tag for exclusive access to the former president and vice-president-elect JD Vance. Fundraising materials reveal that a $1 million contribution is now the minimum requirement for top-tier perks—double the $500,000 asked during Trump’s first inauguration.
The Million-Dollar Package
This highest-tier package grants two tickets to an exclusive dinner with Vance and six tickets to the “candlelight dinner,” where Trump is expected to attend. Lobbyists and donors aiming to secure favor with the incoming administration view these opportunities as essential, reflecting the increased demand for proximity to Trump following his return to power.
The Cost of Access
The dramatic increase in donation levels aligns with a surge in enthusiasm after a contentious election. With over $170 million raised so far and expectations of surpassing $200 million, the committee’s funds far exceed the costs of hosting the events, including receptions, lunches, and balls. For donors with business interests before the government, the $1 million price point is seen as a calculated investment in influence.
Fewer Benefits for Lower Contributions
In contrast, lower-tier contributions—$100,000 or $250,000—now offer significantly diminished access. According to one transition official, donors at these levels may be better off directing their funds to Trump-affiliated political action committees. “At $100,000, you’re not even noticed,” the official remarked, underscoring the exclusivity of this year’s fundraising strategy.
Ticket Tiers and Perks
The five-tier structure outlines donation levels from $50,000 to $1 million, each with decreasing benefits:
- $1 Million: Includes access to both the candlelight dinner and the vice-president’s dinner.
- $500,000: Provides access only to the candlelight dinner, a reduction from 2017 when this tier included both dinners.
- $50,000: Offers limited access, such as attendance at events with Cabinet officials, though this now costs half as much as in 2017.
Promotional materials describe the black-tie “candlelight dinner,” hosted at the National Building Museum, as a marquee event featuring Trump and Melania Trump. Meanwhile, the vice-president’s dinner at the National Gallery of Art is presented as an exclusive affair.
Reduced Perks at Premium Levels
Even the $1 million package delivers fewer benefits than in 2017, as events like the “leadership luncheon,” previously featuring Cabinet appointees and congressional leaders, have been cut. Insiders suggest that private gatherings hosted by Trump allies, such as Donald Trump Jr., Turning Point’s Charlie Kirk, and Steve Bannon, may offer more meaningful opportunities for access.
For Lower-Level Donors: Limited Returns
Donors at lower levels should not expect face time with Trump but may still gain access to events featuring Cabinet officials and Trumpworld figures. However, with scaled-back perks across the board, the value of these contributions is markedly less compared to previous years.
