Trump fans launch GoFundMe to raise $355M ex-prez owes after civil fraud trial
Fans of former president Donald Trump have turned to online fundraising to help him pay a massive $355 million civil court fraud judgment.
“The recent legal battles he faces are not just an attack on him, but an attack on the very ideals of fairness and due process that every American deserves,” reads a GoFundMe effort launched Friday and seeking to raise the nine-figure sum Trump owes. “It’s a moment that calls into question the balance of justice and the application of law, disproportionately aimed at silencing a voice that has been at the forefront of advocating for American strength, prosperity, and security.”
“This is more than a legal fund; it’s a call to all patriots to rally in defense of a man who has never hesitated to stand in defense of us,” the appeal continued. “This fundraiser, therefore, is not merely about raising the ‘ruling’ amount. It’s about making a stand.”
The GoFundMe — which has already raised more than $146,000 as of Saturday evening — was started by Elena Cardone, a Florida woman who described herself as a “mother and an ardent supporter of American values.”
Cardone is married to Grant Cardone, a private equity fund manager.
The largest single donation so far has been $2,500 from an anonymous supporter.
Some donors took to the comment section to leave enthusiastic messages of support for the former president.
“I Believe President Trump deserves the backing of his followers…And I can’t wait until he is our president again….Love hi,” said Christine Muro, who gave $20.
It’s not the first time Trump loyalists have turned to crowdfund on behalf of the billionaire.
A 2019 campaign on GoFundMe to raise money for Trump’s border wall took in $25 million — before its creators were indicted on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
