Donald Trump Raises $800 Million from Corporate Donors for White House Projects

President Donald Trump has overseen a fundraising effort that has drawn roughly $800 million from major corporations for a range of personal initiatives, including a White House ballroom, a presidential library, and political action committees. The operation is run by Meredith O’Rourke, dubbed the “princess of darkness,” who contacts donors on Trump’s behalf and relays the president’s requests for contributions that can reach up to $50 million per company.

Key donors reported include SoftBank ($50 million for the library), Apple ($25 million for the ballroom), Meta Platforms and Microsoft (each $10 million), and Amazon ($5 million). In exchange, donors receive extensive access to Trump, such as invitations to exclusive candle‑lit dinners and private White House events. The Wall Street Journal described the scheme as a new “market for Trump’s affections,” noting that corporate executives are repeatedly asked for additional funds.