Trump gets blasted after Mar-a-Lago hikes initiation fee to $1M months before presidential election

PALM, BEACH, FLORIDA: The Mar-a-Lago club in Florida, owned by former President Donald Trump, is set to raise its initiation fee to $1 million starting in October 2024. This represents a steep increase from the current fee of $700,000, which itself had risen considerably from the $200,000 charged to new members in 2017.

The price hike will reportedly go into effect just a month before the 2024 presidential election and reflects a roughly 40 per cent increase. Bernd Lembcke, the club’s manager, disclosed the new fee in an interview with Bloomberg. He attributed the increase to the basic economics of supply and demand, stating that only four new memberships are available. “We are going up to $1 million because we have four memberships to sell,” Lembcke explained, adding, “We are not desperate.”

Mar-a-Lago's history, membership fees and amenities

Mar-a-Lago has served as Donald Trump’s residence since his departure from the White House, doubling as a venue for numerous MAGA fundraisers. The estate has also been the subject of controversy, with allegations that Trump stored classified documents there after leaving office.

The transformation of Mar-a-Lago from a private residence to a members-only club began in 1994. Nestled in Palm Beach, approximately 70 miles north of Miami, the estate spans 20 acres and boasts palm trees, security, privacy walls, and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.

Inside, the club is adorned with opulent furnishings, many featuring gold trim, along with chandeliers and elegant staircases. Portraits of Trump and his family adorn the walls, contributing to the luxurious ambiance.

Notable members of the club, as of 2017, included oil executive Bill Koch, New Jersey Democratic power broker George Norcross, conservative radio host Howie Carr, and New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick.

Apart from the hefty initiation fee, members are required to pay annual dues of around $20,000. According to the club's website, these dues grant access to various amenities, including “the formal and casual dining areas, the Mar-a-Lago Spa, the pool, the Beach Club, breathtaking guest rooms and exclusive suites, a state-of-the-art fitness center, award-winning tennis courts, beautiful croquet lawns and an entertainment series which hosts internationally world-renowned talent.”

However, staying overnight at the club requires additional expenses, with room rates reportedly upwards of $2,000 per night, as per a 2016 report from The Globe and Mail. Current pricing for overnight stays has not been publicly disclosed.

The member list of Mar-a-Lago has always been shrouded in secrecy, often sparking controversy, especially during Trump’s presidency when he allegedly considered appointing at least three club members to ambassadorship.

In her 2020 book, 'The Grifter’s Club' Sarah Blaskey claimed access to old membership records and revealed that Jeffrey Epstein was a member until he was expelled in 2007 for "harassing the daughter" of another member, the Daily Beast reported.

Donald Trump trolled over Mar-a-Lago price hike

Donald Trump's critics weren't too pleased with the price hike at the club and mocked him on social media.

"The 'billionaire' needs more money from his useful idiots," one posted on X.

"Translation: He’s bleeding money & losing members," another wrote.

"Trump is out of touch, and so are the people who are members!" read a comment.

"He wants to rip them off now before he goes to prison," someone else alleged.

"Truly a man of the people," another quipped.

In related news, Trump is expected to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago on July 26.

The meeting is part of Netanyahu’s visit to the United States, which includes a speech to Congress and a bilateral meeting with President Biden. Netanyahu is also scheduled to meet with families of Americans held hostage by Hamas, Fox News reported.

Netanyahu’s visit occurs amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, following a terrorist attack on October 7, 2023. Trump addressed the meeting on his Truth Social account, stating, “Looking forward to welcoming Bibi Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida.”

He reminisced about his first term, saying, “During my first term, we had Peace and Stability in the Region, even signing the historic Abraham Accords - And we will have it again.” Trump touted his “PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH Agenda,” suggesting it would demonstrate to the world that “these horrible, deadly Wars and violent Conflicts must end.”

Trump concluded with a jab at Vice President Kamala Harris, “Millions are dying, and Kamala Harris is in no way capable of stopping it.”

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