Summary (tl;dr)

Miriam Adelson, a prominent Republican megadonor, is trending after publicly urging Donald Trump to seek an unprecedented third term as U.S. President and reportedly pledging an additional $250 million to his campaign if he does.

Essential Background

Miriam Adelson, an Israeli-American physician and businesswoman, is one of the Republican Party's largest individual donors, known for her substantial financial contributions to conservative political causes and particularly to Donald Trump's presidential campaigns. Along with her late husband, Sheldon Adelson, she has historically poured hundreds of millions into Republican efforts, including over $100 million for Trump's 2024 election bid through super PACs like Preserve America. The 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution explicitly limits a president to two terms in office.

The Full Story

Miriam Adelson recently made headlines during a Hanukkah reception at the White House when she openly encouraged President Donald Trump to pursue a third term in office. During her remarks, she stated that she had discussed potential legal avenues for such a move with pro-Israel attorney Alan Dershowitz. Trump subsequently told the audience that Adelson had offered "another $250 million" to his campaign if he were to run for a third term, a pledge Adelson confirmed. This public exchange and significant financial commitment have amplified discussions surrounding presidential term limits and the influence of major political donors.

Why It Matters

Miriam Adelson's public statements and reported pledge of $250 million are significant because they highlight the immense influence of megadonors in American politics and fuel ongoing debates about presidential term limits. Her substantial financial backing, combined with her encouragement for a constitutionally unprecedented third term for a president, brings attention to the role of money in political campaigns and the potential challenges to established democratic norms. This also underscores the continued strong alliance between powerful donors like Adelson and former President Trump.

Geographic Location

• East Room, White House, Washington, D.C., District of Columbia, United States (Hanukkah reception where Miriam Adelson urged a third Trump term and pledged funds)