GOP candidates, conservative groups holding more events at Mar-a-Lago than previous years: report

GOP candidates and conservative groups held more events at Mar-a-Lago in 2021 than previous years, according to a tally by The Washington Post.

The Post found at least 30 events held at Mar-a-Lago through mid-December of this year through an analysis of social media posts and campaign finance records.

Nine of the events gave former President Trump’s property more than $463,000, with the Post expecting the federal political committees report to be released in a month to show significantly more money was given to Mar-a-Lago.

Trump advisers familiar with the events and club members told the Post the report will also show there were far more than 30 events hosted at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago.

Advisers said Trump has held several fundraisers in one night at the estate, as the location is popular for those in crowded Republican primaries and those trying to link themselves to the former president, people familiar with the events told the Post.

A copy of a form to request an event at Mar-a-Lago reviewed by the outlet showed a price for an event is not given until it is known if Trump’s presence is requested, if his name will be on the invite and how many photos a candidate wants with him.

Some of the largest events that have occurred in 2021 at the site were a fundraiser for Georgia Senate candidate Hershel Walker, a gala for conservative group Turning Point USA and a gala for the Log Cabin Republicans.

Many candidates visit Mar-a-Lago with the hopes of getting an endorsement from the former president, but visiting the estate does not always guarantee Trump’s approval in a race.