Trump hosts Atlanta luncheon fundraiser to rival Biden
- Former President Donald Trump looks to add to war chest in Atlanta
- Poll: Abortion not a top issue in Georgia; immigration, inflation leading
- Trump holds nearly 4-point polling lead over Biden in Georgia
ATLANTA (NewsNation) — Former President Donald Trump will hold a major fundraiser at a luncheon Wednesday in Georgia, a critical swing state, as his decision not to endorse a national abortion ban sends ripples throughout the Republican Party.
After a record-setting night of fundraising Saturday in Florida, raising $50.5 million, Trump is trying to bolster his campaign funds in Georgia to narrow President Joe Biden’s financial advantage.
While money plays a crucial role, the ultimate prize is Georgia’s 16 electoral votes. Despite Biden winning the state in 2020, the current Decision Desk HQ polling shows Trump holds a 3.8-point lead in the state.
Following Trump’s announcement Monday on Truth Social that it would be best for states to handle abortion, Biden criticized the former president. The president released a new ad, detailing the story of a mother who had a miscarriage and faced challenges getting an abortion.
No polls have specifically addressed the impact of Trump’s announcement. However, a recent Marist poll found that only 8% of voters consider abortion as their top priority, behind issues like preserving democracy, immigration and inflation.
Trump’s Atlanta event reportedly costs $6,600 per couple to attend and up to $250,000 to join the host committee. Notable attendees include former Georgia Sens. David Perdue and Kelly Leffler, and billionaire Home Depot co-founder Bernie Marcus.
Trump is expected to arrive at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Wednesday morning, following a busy weekend in Pennsylvania. Next, he’s expected in New York for his hush money trial next week.