Explore how Silicon Valley donors are now supporting VP Kamala Harris, the GOP labeling Biden's exit a 'coup', and the spread of online conspiracy theories surrounding the 2024 election. Delve into ineffective attacks on Harris, astrological predictions, and humorous conspiracy theories in this intriguing podcast.
Silicon Valley donors are shifting support to Kamala Harris after Biden's exit.
Donations to Harris are surging, reversing earlier slowdowns and reshaping fundraising dynamics.
Deep dives
President Biden Drops Out of 2024 Race and Endorses VP Harris
President Joe Biden announces his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race, fully endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee. The move follows calls for Biden to step down amidst a slowdown in fundraising after a disastrous debate performance. Harris's quick confirmation to run has reignited left-leaning Silicon Valley donors' interest, with mega-donor Reid Hoffman shifting support to Harris.
Democratic Fundraising Revitalized After Biden's Departure
Democrats' fundraising sees a resurgence following Biden's exit as donors regain enthusiasm with Harris as the new candidate. High-ranking figures like Manny Yekudiel express relief, citing improved organizing efforts and heightened enthusiasm among donors. The shift signifies a turn in financial support, with small dollar donations flooding in for Harris's campaign on platforms like ActBlue, potentially reversing earlier donation slowdowns.
Right-Wing Shift Towards Supporting Trump Amidst Silicon Valley Dynamics
Notable right-wing figures like Elon Musk and David Sacks align with Trump, drawing in support and donations. The shift contrasts with left-leaning donor apprehension towards Biden, with potential implications for fundraising dynamics. Influential Silicon Valley donors navigate a landscape of political allegiances, impacting financial backing for presidential candidates.
Conspiracy Theories Surrounding Biden's Exit and Vice President Harris
Conspiracy theories circulate online questioning Joe Biden's absence and suggesting secretive motives behind his departure. Speculation around Biden's health and disappearance fuels unfounded claims, overshadowing the reality of his recovery from COVID-19. Additionally, astrological predictions regarding Kamala Harris's candidacy surface, merging speculative narratives with political events.
Today on WIRED Politics Lab, how Democratic megadonors in Silicon Valley are showing their support for Vice President Kamala Harris now that President Joe Biden has dropped out of the race. Plus, why posts from the far-right and Republican lawmakers calling Biden’s exit a ‘coup’ have exploded online.
Leah Feiger is @LeahFeiger. Makena Kelly is @kellymakena. Lauren Goode is @LaurenGoode. David Gilbert is @DaithaiGilbert. Write to us at politicslab@WIRED.com. Be sure to subscribe to the WIRED Politics Lab newsletter here.