How Lawmakers Are Leveraging Taylor Swift Concerts for Fundraising Success

Despite the excitement surrounding the concerts, many lawmakers are finding that these events aren’t significantly boosting their fundraising efforts. For example, Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) held a fundraiser during Taylor Swift’s second Las Vegas show, estimating that the event netted between $20,000 and $30,000 after expenses. His campaign reported expenditures exceeding $17,500 on the ticket resale platform StubHub in January, along with over $6,000 for catering at the concert venue, Allegiant Stadium. Tickets for this exclusive fundraiser were priced at $2,500 each, according to a reviewed invitation from POLITICO. While Swalwell could not recall the exact number of attendees, he estimated the crowd was between 12 to 40 individuals.

“No one leaves a Taylor Swift concert sad,” Swalwell expressed, capturing the joy of the experience. “It’s like one of the happiest, most uplifting, uniting experiences I think anyone can be a part of, and my job, you don’t get a lot of that.” This sentiment highlights the unique atmosphere that these concerts create, allowing for a relaxed yet engaging environment for political fundraising.

Successful Fundraising: Insights from Rep. Madeleine Dean’s Experience

In May, Rep. Madeleine Dean (D-Pa.) estimated that her fundraiser during a Swift concert in Philadelphia raised approximately $25,000 for her campaign. The event attracted about 18 attendees, with tickets priced at $3,000 each or $5,000 for two. Some attendees opted to pay less while others contributed more, reflecting the diverse financial capabilities of her supporters. This approach not only raises funds but also fosters a strong community among constituents, engaging them in a memorable experience that blends politics and entertainment.

“I gotta come clean: my granddaughter inspired it,” Dean shared, referring to her 12-year-old granddaughter, Aubrey, a self-proclaimed “certified Swiftie.” The family connection strengthened the personal aspect of the fundraiser, as Aubrey, her mother, and her stepmother joined in the festivities. Dean noted that some campaign staff were disappointed not to attend the concert, leading to debates over choosing a Swift concert for the fundraiser instead of a stop on the Beyoncé Renaissance World Tour. This decision highlights the competitive nature of fundraising events and the influencers within campaign teams.

Building a Connection: Swalwell’s Longtime Affinity for Swift

For Swalwell, his reputation as a Swift fan has been long-standing. “Five years ago, I was bopping to ‘Cruel Summer,’” he recalled. “Subpoena my playlist.” His commitment to the artist was further solidified in 2020 when his team became the first to collaborate with Swift on a political advertisement, obtaining her permission to feature her song “Only the Young.” The ad depicted young activists at protests alongside critical commentary on former President Donald Trump and his allies, demonstrating how pop culture can intersect with political messaging.

In addition to his Las Vegas fundraiser, Swalwell has participated in other fundraising events at Swift concerts, including appearances for Dean in Philadelphia and Rep. Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.) in Pittsburgh. His campaign disclosed spending over $1,200 on food and drinks at Swift’s Philadelphia venue, further emphasizing the commitment of lawmakers to create enjoyable fundraising atmospheres. Moreover, Swalwell also organized a second fundraiser in conjunction with the premiere of the Eras Tour film last month, showcasing how these events can be creatively tied to current cultural phenomena.

Unique Benefits of Concert Fundraisers for Political Engagement

Several officials interviewed acknowledged the unique advantages of engaging with donors outside the typical D.C. reception circuit. Karl Thurmond, co-chair of California Democratic Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove’s finance committee, noted that concert fundraisers allow donors to connect with politicians in a more relaxed, personal setting. The Kamlager-Dove campaign held a fundraiser at a Beyoncé concert in September, coinciding with the singer’s birthday. Attendees at the event even spotted celebrities like Kris Jenner from their suite, adding an element of excitement and exclusivity. “Everybody was whooping and hollering, including the congresswoman,” Thurmond described, highlighting the celebratory atmosphere that these fundraisers can create.

This casual environment fosters a sense of camaraderie and allows for genuine interactions, with many attendees letting loose and enjoying the music. The opportunity to engage with constituents in such a lively setting can enhance the overall fundraising experience, making it more memorable and impactful.

The fact that these campaigns have managed to secure tickets—often priced at several hundred dollars—while countless fans struggle to acquire them at reasonable prices on platforms like Ticketmaster has not gone unnoticed by lawmakers. Recent scrutiny by Congress and the Department of Justice over monopoly concerns related to Ticketmaster follows complaints about the chaotic pre-sale for Swift tickets. Additionally, the White House has been investigating the so-called junk fees associated with ticket purchases, signaling a growing concern over the ticketing industry.

The Frustrating Reality of Concert Ticket Sales for Fundraising

Rep. Norma Torres (D-Calif.), who previously hosted a fundraiser featuring Cher, understands the chaotic nature of concert ticket sales all too well. She recounted a recent attempt to purchase Beyoncé tickets while voting on the House floor, hoping to secure a fundraising opportunity. Unfortunately, her credit card was declined multiple times, showcasing the complexities lawmakers face in organizing these events. Ultimately, she managed to secure four seats, which were all gifted to donors, forcing Torres to miss the concert due to prior district commitments.

“It is truly a nightmare, and I totally get how incredibly frustrating it was for the fans to get tickets,” she empathized. “I kept having to run in and out because there’s no reception on the floor.” This experience underscores the difficulties of navigating the ticketing landscape, especially for those in high-pressure political environments.

Transforming Fundraising: The Relaxed Atmosphere of Concerts

Torres emphasized that her usual interactions with lobbyists tend to revolve around “dry business” discussions. In contrast, traditional fundraising receptions often hinder genuine conversations with attendees. However, at a concert, individuals tend to relax in a more casual setting, shedding their formal attire and often engaging in dance. This shift not only enhances the fundraising experience but also fosters stronger connections between politicians and their supporters, making for a more enjoyable and effective event.

Fundraising events of this nature are not entirely new. In 2015, The Washington Post reported that members of Congress were inviting donors to Taylor Swift’s 1989 Tour at Nationals Park. However, the mix of lawmakers at that event appeared to be more bipartisan compared to the recent gatherings surrounding Beyoncé and Swift tours, which seem to feature predominantly Democratic fundraisers. A preliminary review by POLITICO of campaign disbursements has yet to show any Republican fundraisers linked to these musical events.

Exploring the Political Landscape: Dean’s Thoughts on Swift Fundraisers

When asked why Democrats might be more inclined to host fundraisers at the Eras Tour, Dean admitted uncertainty. However, her granddaughter, Aubrey, offered an interesting perspective. She pointed out that in Swift’s documentary “Miss Americana,” the artist noted that Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) resembled “Trump in a wig,” which may resonate with younger, politically active fans. This connection highlights the complex interplay of pop culture and politics, illustrating how artists can influence political engagement among their followers.