Posted on: August 3, 2023, 12:51h.
Last updated on: August 2, 2023, 01:06h.
The Adelsons, a wealthy family known for their ties to the casino gambling industry, have been the major financial backers of GOP presidential candidates in recent election cycles. As the 2024 race ramps up, the candidates are vying for their support.
Following the passing of her husband Sheldon Adelson, Dr. Miriam Adelson became the largest shareholder of Las Vegas Sands, the casino empire he founded. The Adelsons contributed over $200 million to GOP federal candidates between the 2016 and 2020 elections.
Despite a period of frustration during Trump’s presidency, Mr. Adelson continued his contributions until his death. Dr. Adelson subsequently reduced the family’s political spending. However, with Sands announcing the resumption of its dividend, speculation is rising that she will once again play a significant role in supporting the Republican Party’s 2024 presidential candidate.
While Donald Trump remains the frontrunner for the GOP ticket, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is also campaigning for Dr. Adelson’s backing. DeSantis has a history of support from the Adelsons, with the couple donating over $500,000 to his gubernatorial campaign in 2018. However, PredictIt, an online political betting exchange, gives Trump a 58% chance of securing the GOP ticket, compared to DeSantis’ 17% chance.