In a surprising move that has sent shockwaves through California’s liberal circles, relatives of Governor Gavin Newsom are set to host a high-profile fundraiser for none other than Donald Trump. This event, scheduled for September 13, will be held in the affluent Bay Area town of Woodside, and is expected to attract some of Trump’s wealthiest supporters. The fundraiser is organized by Tom and Stacey Siebel, relatives of Newsom’s wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom.
Tom Siebel, a successful software developer and billionaire, is a second cousin once removed from Jennifer Siebel Newsom. Despite this distant family connection, the news has raised eyebrows, especially given Newsom’s prominent role as a Democrat and vocal critic of Trump. Tickets for the fundraiser are reportedly fetching as much as $500,000 per couple, marking it as one of the priciest political events of the season. This event comes at a crucial time for Trump, who is ramping up his fundraising efforts as the 2024 election approaches.
Another day in Gavin Newsome’s California pic.twitter.com/vxNUZ2UQg3
— High Priority News (@HPNnetwork) August 29, 2024
The Siebel family has been a source of political intrigue in the past. Jennifer Siebel Newsom’s parents made headlines when they relocated to Florida in 2020 and her father, Ken Siebel, registered as a Republican. In fact, Ken Siebel has previously donated to Republican causes, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, one of Gavin Newsom’s political adversaries. During a televised debate in 2022, DeSantis pointed out that Newsom’s in-laws had left California, allegedly due to the state’s high taxes and crime rates, further intensifying the political tension between the two governors.
This fundraiser marks Trump’s second visit to the Bay Area in three months, underscoring the significance of California as a political battleground. Despite its reputation as a Democratic stronghold, California remains a key target for both parties, especially in terms of fundraising. Trump is also scheduled to appear at another high-dollar fundraiser in Los Angeles just a day before the Siebel event, with tickets for that event priced at $250,000 per person.
Gov. Gavin Newsome blames the California Assembly for the Reparations Bill not getting to his desk. pic.twitter.com/VhF2Nohyzp
— EllisCaliforniaJones (@EllisCaliJones) September 6, 2024
Trump’s return to California comes at a critical time in his campaign. He faces increasing legal challenges, including an upcoming sentencing for his conviction on 34 felony counts related to falsifying business records.
Nevertheless, his ability to draw massive donations, even in a predominantly liberal state like California, demonstrates his enduring influence and appeal among certain wealthy donors.
The news of Newsom’s relatives hosting a Trump fundraiser is particularly striking given the governor’s potential aspirations for higher office. While Newsom has repeatedly denied any interest in running for president in 2024, his name continues to be floated as a possible candidate, especially if President Biden opts not to seek re-election. This event could complicate Newsom’s political narrative, as it brings into sharp focus the ideological divide within his extended family.
As the fundraiser date approaches, the political world will be watching closely to see how this development plays out, both for Trump’s campaign and Newsom’s political future. The juxtaposition of Trump rallying support from Newsom’s in-laws adds another layer of complexity to the already polarized political landscape in California.