A recent fundraising event in the Hamptons saw the likes of Joy Behar and Chris Rock in attendance. While Presidential candidate Kamala Harris was noticeably absent, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz stole the show with his presence. The event, held at the Southampton home of tech couple Stuart Butterfield and Jen Rubio, was a star-studded affair. Rock was seen mingling with former “Saturday Night Live” producer Marci Klein, while Mumford & Sons provided the entertainment for the evening. The atmosphere was described as having “high, positive energy.”
A Contrasting Experience
This event in the Hamptons stood in stark contrast to a previous appearance by President Joe Biden in the same area. Biden’s visit, which took place right after a disastrous debate performance against Donald Trump, was criticized as a desperate attempt to salvage his struggling campaign. Despite tickets ranging from $6,600 to $150,000, the event failed to generate the same level of excitement as Walz’s fundraiser. The atmosphere was described as tense and unenthusiastic, with one insider calling it a “Band-Aid on a bullet wound.”
While Kamala Harris chose to skip the Hamptons event, citing the end of the summer season, her husband Doug Emhoff is set to make appearances at upcoming fundraisers in the area. Additionally, a larger fundraising event in NYC is scheduled for Harris this fall. The decision to prioritize a larger event in the city over the Hamptons speaks to the strategic planning behind political fundraising efforts.
Despite the wealthy attendees at the fundraiser, Gov. Tim Walz was praised for his humble demeanor and genuine personality. One source described him as “the nicest man ever,” highlighting his ability to connect with people on a personal level. This positive reception in the Hamptons showcases Walz’s potential as a candidate who can resonate with a wide range of supporters.
The Hamptons continue to be a hotspot for political fundraising events, attracting celebrities, wealthy donors, and political figures alike. The contrasting experiences of different events in the area shed light on the importance of public image and strategic decision-making in the realm of political fundraising.