Jared Kushner, Donald Trump's son-in-law, has reportedly been reaching out to donors to encourage their participation in a Trump fundraiser in New York. This development is one of the first signs of Kushner's re-engagement in political activities to support his father-in-law's re-election bid. After stepping away from politics following Trump's term in 2021, Kushner founded Affinity Partners, a private equity firm based in Miami.
Despite Ivanka Trump's announcement in November 2022 that she would not be involved in her father's campaign and would prioritize her children, Kushner seems to be increasing his involvement. It is not yet clear whether his recent fundraising efforts are a one-time occurrence or indicate a more significant role in Trump's campaign, which has been described as more streamlined and disciplined compared to previous years, with less direct involvement from Trump family members.
Kushner has personally contacted donors ahead of a May 14 fundraiser in Manhattan, where his parents, Seryl and Charles Kushner, are among the co-hosts. Sources familiar with the matter have revealed that Kushner has been inviting donors to the fundraiser and asking for recommendations of other potential donors.
Kushner's firm has received significant investments from the Middle East, including a reported $2 billion from the Saudi Arabian government. A spokesperson for Kushner stated that he supports his father-in-law and is happy to facilitate connections with those wanting to assist the campaign.
Ivanka Trump will not be among the delegates representing Florida at the Republican National Convention in July, suggesting she is maintaining her pledge to avoid direct involvement in politics. In 2020, Trump pardoned Kushner's father, Charles Kushner, who had been sentenced to two years in prison in 2004 for various offenses, including tax evasion and witness tampering. Last year, Charles Kushner donated $1 million to the pro-Trump super PAC MAGA Inc.