Abigail Disney, a prominent heiress and granddaughter of a co-founder of The Walt Disney Company, has recently announced her decision to resume financial contributions to the Democratic Party. This comes after President Joe Biden decided not to seek re-election and subsequently endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor for the presidential race.
Earlier this month, Disney had declared her intention to halt donations to the party, stating that she would withhold her support until Biden stepped aside. In an email to CNBC, she confirmed her renewed commitment to fundraising efforts for Democrats, expressing optimism about Harris’s candidacy. Disney voiced her support for Harris, emphasizing that the party should unite behind her to achieve electoral success, while also addressing perceived biases related to race and gender that may have impacted their attitudes toward Biden compared to Harris.
Disney’s initial withdrawal of support mirrored sentiments among other influential Democratic donors who were discontented with Biden’s performance, particularly following a challenging debate with former President Donald Trump. Reports suggest that this discontent among top donors was a contributing factor to Biden’s decision to exit the race. Notable figures, including financier George Soros and his son Alex, have also voiced their support for Harris following Biden’s announcement.
This shift may signal a renewed vigor within the Democratic donor community as they rally around Harris’s candidacy. It reflects a growing desire for new leadership that can unify the party and build momentum leading into the upcoming elections.