Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was unable to attend a high-profile fundraiser in the Hamptons on Monday due to a COVID-19 diagnosis.
According to Page Six, the fundraiser took place at the home of prominent art collectors Lisa and Richard Perry in Sag Harbor. The event, held in support of Kamala Harris and Tim Walz, saw former President Bill Clinton stepping in to replace his wife at the last minute.
Despite Hillary Clinton's absence, the event proceeded with Bill Clinton and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff addressing attendees. The fundraiser was one of two held on Monday in the Hamptons, with both events reportedly raising over $2 million combined for the Democratic campaign efforts.
The Sag Harbor fundraiser attracted a number of notable figures from various sectors. Among the event chairs were Sharon and Jon Corzine, Crystal McCrary McGuire and Ray McGuire, Brooke Garber Neidich, and Dan Neidich, and Laurie Tisch. These individuals and other prominent supporters contributed to the event's success.
Tickets for the fundraiser were set at a premium, with the highest tier priced at $100,000 per person. This steep price point underscores the exclusive nature of the event and its importance to the Democratic fundraising efforts. The invitation reportedly emphasized the significance of the gathering, stating it was likely to be one of the last small events in the New York area before the upcoming election.
The Perry residence, known for housing works by renowned artists such as Frank Stella, Alexander Calder, Ellsworth Kelly, and Donald Judd, provided an impressive backdrop for the political gathering. The choice of venue reflects the intersection of art, politics, and high society that often characterizes such fundraisers in the Hamptons.
The unexpected change in plans due to Hillary Clinton's COVID-19 diagnosis highlighted the adaptability of political campaigns. A source close to the event noted that the Clintons' involvement was not obligatory, stating, "They don't have to show at these things." This comment underscores the perceived value of the Clintons' presence at such events.
Bill Clinton's willingness to step in on short notice demonstrated the former president's ongoing commitment to Democratic causes. The swap also showcased the party's ability to quickly adjust to unforeseen circumstances, ensuring that the fundraiser maintained its high-profile status despite the change in speakers.
Doug Emhoff's participation alongside Bill Clinton added another layer of political star power to the event. As the husband of Vice President Kamala Harris, Emhoff's presence reinforced the current administration's connection to the fundraising efforts.
The Sag Harbor event was not the only fundraiser held in the Hamptons that day. Earlier on Monday, another Democratic fundraiser took place at the home of Michael Kempner, CEO of MWW and known Clinton supporter. The dual events underscore the intense fundraising efforts taking place as the election season approaches.
The timing of these fundraisers coincides with reports of multiple COVID-19 cases among attendees of the recent Democratic National Convention in Chicago. Hillary Clinton's diagnosis adds to the growing list of political figures affected by the virus, raising concerns about the potential spread at high-profile gatherings.
Despite these health concerns, the success of the fundraisers—reportedly raising over $2 million in just four days—indicates strong enthusiasm for the Democratic candidates. This financial support will likely play a crucial role in Harris's and other party members' upcoming campaign efforts.
Hillary Clinton's absence from the Hamptons fundraiser due to COVID-19 led to a quick substitution by Bill Clinton and Doug Emhoff. The event and another held the same day raised significant funds for Democratic campaigns. Despite health concerns, the fundraisers' success demonstrates continued support for the party's candidates. The adaptability shown in handling Clinton's absence highlights the resilience of political operations in the face of unexpected challenges.
