Former President Donald J. Trump’s presidential campaign has implemented a new policy that requires Republican candidates to pay a 5 percent “tax” on donations if they want to use his name, image, or likeness in their campaign materials. This move comes as Trump seeks to close a significant financial gap between himself and President Biden, who currently has more than double the cash on hand.
The campaign, led by co-campaign managers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita, also announced stricter guidelines for campaign materials using Trump’s name, prohibiting language such as “President Trump needs you” or “If you support President Trump, you’ll contribute now.” The goal, according to campaign spokeswoman Danielle Alvarez, is to protect small-dollar donors from scammers using the president’s name and likeness.
In a letter to Republican vendors, the campaign stated that candidates who do not comply with the new rules will face consequences, including the suspension of business relationships. The campaign also encouraged candidates to donate more than the minimum 5 percent, with any higher split being viewed favorably by the Republican National Committee and Trump’s campaign.
This latest development in the Trump campaign’s fundraising strategy highlights the importance of financial support in the upcoming election and the lengths to which campaigns are willing to go to secure donations.
