Former President Donald Trump’s campaign is asking for a 5% cut of funds from candidates who fundraise off of his image and likeness.
In a letter sent to Republican digital vendors, obtained by Politico, Trump campaign co-managers Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles requested the funds be sent to Trump National Committee JFC. All candidates or committees that use his image and likeness fall under the requirements outlined.
“Beginning tomorrow, we ask that all candidates and committees who choose to use President Trump’s name, image, and likeness split a minimum of 5% of all fundraising solicitations to Trump National Committee JFC,” the letter said. “This includes but is not limited to sending to the house file, prospecting vendors, and advertising.”
It also said those choosing to donate more than the 5% would be remembered and viewed favorably by Trump and Republican National Committee leadership.
“Any split that is higher than 5% will be seen favorably by the RNC and President Trump’s campaign and is routinely reported to the highest levels of leadership within both organizations,” it said.
In addition to the request for a cut, the campaign also laid down a list of guidelines candidates and committees must follow when using Trump’s image. The former president’s family can only be mentioned if prior authorization is given. Questioning viewers’ loyalty to Trump, or tying it to a financial contribution, is forbidden. Only people personally authorized by the campaign may speak on behalf of Trump.
The guidelines, aside from streamlining messaging for November, also reflect efforts to increase campaign funds, as Trump struggles to pay his increasingly exorbitant legal bills. Trump is also looking to close the growing fundraising gap with President Joe Biden’s campaign. So far, Biden has taken in over twice the amount that Trump has.
