Abigail Disney, the heiress and granddaughter of a co-founder of The Walt Disney Company, announced that she will resume her financial support for the Democratic Party following President Joe Biden’s decision to not seek reelection.
Earlier this month, Disney stated she would halt her donations until there was a new candidate at the top of the ticket. In an email to CNBC, she confirmed her return to supporting the party, now that Biden has stepped aside and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor.
Disney had previously expressed her backing for Harris, emphasizing the potential for a successful campaign if the Democratic Party unites behind the Vice President. She criticized the party’s tolerance for Biden’s perceived shortcomings compared to those of Harris, suggesting that race and gender played a role in this disparity.
Her earlier decision to withhold contributions was part of a larger response from elite Democratic donors dissatisfied with Biden’s leadership, particularly following his underwhelming debate performance against Donald Trump. Reports indicate that the pressure from high-profile donors played a role in Biden’s decision to withdraw from the race.
Prominent figures like George Soros and his son, Alex Soros, have also expressed their support for Harris in light of Biden’s announcement.