'Seems kinda cheap': Biden trolled after raising $30M from star-studded Hollywood gala led by George Clooney and Julia Roberts

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: In a dazzling display of star power, some of Hollywood’s brightest stars headlined a fundraiser for President Joe Biden, raising a record-breaking $30 million for the Democratic candidate.

The event, held at the 7,100-seat Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on Saturday night, June 15, aimed to energize supporters for a White House race that many believe could be among the most consequential in US history.

Hollywood gets behind Biden

George Clooney, Julia Roberts, and Barbra Streisand were among the celebrities who took the stage, adding their voices and influence to the cause.

Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel interviewed President Biden and former President Barack Obama, highlighting the importance of defeating former President Donald Trump in what is expected to be an exceedingly close race.

"All we gotta do is remember what it was like," Biden remarked, referring to Trump’s time in the White House, during the more than half-hour discussion with Kimmel. This sentiment was echoed by Obama, who stressed the need for continued voter engagement and participation.

The event underscored its importance through Biden’s decision to fly overnight across nine time zones from the G7 summit in southern Italy to Southern California. The President prioritized the trip over a significant summit in Switzerland focused on ending Russia’s war in Ukraine, instead dispatching Vice President Kamala Harris to represent the US.

Outside the theater, the gravity of political tensions was evident as police in riot gear managed a group of protesters. The protesters, angered by the Biden administration’s handling of Israel’s war against Hamas in Gaza, demonstrated nearby.

A night of performances and political commentary

Entertainment for the evening included performances by Jack Black and Sheryl Lee Ralph, with actors Kathryn Hahn and Jason Bateman introducing Kimmel. Kimmel, blending humor with serious political commentary, noted the stakes of the upcoming election, emphasizing issues such as women’s rights, healthcare, and voting rights.

“So much is at stake in this election,” Kimmel stated, adding that “even the ballot is on the ballot,” a nod to the Biden administration’s push to expand voting rights.

When asked by Kimmel about his proudest accomplishments, Biden pointed to the administration’s economic policies. “We have the strongest economy in the world today,” Biden said, adding, “We try to give ordinary people an even chance.”

In contrast, Trump, who was campaigning in Detroit, criticized Biden’s economic policies and inflation management. Trump campaign spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt described Biden as fundraising “with out-of-touch elitist Hollywood celebrities.”

Biden countered these criticisms by highlighting the legislative successes of his administration. “We passed every major piece of legislation we attempted to get done,” he told the California crowd. Obama praised Biden’s extensive legislative achievements in healthcare, public works, the environment, technology manufacturing, and gun safety.

Supreme court and the impact of the 2024 election

“What we’re seeing now is a byproduct of 2016. There were a whole bunch of folks who, for whatever reason, sat out,” the former president said.

The conversation also touched on the Supreme Court, with Obama reflecting on the lasting impact of Trump’s nominations. “Hopefully we have learned our lesson, because these elections matter in very concrete ways,” he said. The audience reacted negatively to the mention of Roe v Wade's overturning, prompting Obama to advise, “Don’t hiss, vote.”

Biden emphasized the potential impact of the 2024 election on the Supreme Court, suggesting the next president could nominate two new justices. He expressed concern over the court's current conservative majority, saying it has “never been this far out of step.”

Biden also referenced reports of an upside-down flag, symbolizing Trump’s false election fraud claims, flown outside Justice Samuel Alito’s home in January 2021. He warned that a Trump re-election could lead to more such justices.

Kimmel’s humor provided light moments throughout the night. At one point, he jokingly asked Biden how a president might retaliate against a talk-show host who regularly mocks him. “Ever hear of Delta Force?” Biden quipped, referring to the elite Army unit.

Kimmel also commented on Biden’s campaign promise to restore the soul of America, humorously suggesting, “Lately it seems we might need an exorcism,” and asked if Biden’s meeting with the Pope in Italy was related.

The $30 million raised surpassed Biden’s previous record of $26 million at a Radio City Music Hall fundraiser in March. Despite Biden’s early lead in the fundraising race, Trump has recently gained ground, raising $50.5 million in April and $141 million in May, the New York Post reported.

Biden trolled on social media

The fundraiser also drew reactions on social media, with many mocking the amount raised and questioning the influence of Hollywood celebrities.

"Trump raised $54M in one day all by HIMSELF!" one posted on X.

"Only 30 million from some of the richest people in America? They know he's going to lose and don't want to waste their money," another insisted.

"Gee, $30 million seems kinda cheap from these rich, out-of-touch Hollyweird elites," someone else chimed in.

"And they know he can’t find his way off the stage without someone leading him," a comment read.

"Man if it weren’t for celebrities and crypto scams in war zones and DOJ slush funds how would they ever raise another dollar?" another wondered.

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