Abigail Disney, the heiress and granddaughter of one of The Walt Disney Company’s co-founders, has announced her intention to resume her financial support for the Democratic Party now that President Joe Biden has officially withdrawn from the 2024 presidential race. Disney previously declared that she would halt her donations until a new candidate replaced Biden at the forefront of the party.
In a statement to CNBC, Disney confirmed her renewed support, highlighting her backing for Vice President Kamala Harris, who has since secured Biden’s endorsement for the presidential nomination. Disney expressed her belief in Harris’s potential, suggesting that if the Democrats could rally around her, success in the upcoming election was achievable, particularly pointing to the inequities in how the party has treated their candidates based on gender and race.
Disney’s previous decision to withhold contributions stemmed from dissatisfaction with Biden’s performance, particularly during high-stakes moments such as debates against former President Donald Trump. Alongside her, prominent Democratic donors like George Soros and his son, Alex Soros, have also expressed their support for Harris following Biden’s exit.
This shift in dynamics within the Democratic Party could signify a pivotal moment leading up to the 2024 election, bringing fresh energy and backing for a new leadership approach. With influential figures like Disney and Soros now aligning themselves with Harris, it hints at a potential revitalization of donor confidence that could energize the party’s campaign efforts.
In summary, Abigail Disney’s return to supporting the Democratic Party and her endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris reflect a significant shift in the political landscape, suggesting an opportunity for the party to unify and gain strength ahead of the elections. This move could inspire more donors to back the Democrats, fostering a hopeful turn towards a more inclusive and robust campaign strategy.