Former President Trump’s PAC Spends Big on Legal Expenses amid Ongoing Trials
Former President Donald Trump’s leadership PAC, Save America, has been facing financial challenges as it grapples with legal expenses stemming from civil and criminal cases. According to recent filings with the Federal Election Commission, the PAC spent nearly $3.7 million on legal-related expenses in March, with most of the funds going towards Trump’s legal defense team.
The PAC also has outstanding legal bills amounting to $886,000, primarily owed to the law firm Robert & Robert, which represented Trump in a business fraud case brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James. This case resulted in a $355 million judgment against Trump in February.
In addition to the civil fraud case, Trump is also facing a historic criminal trial in a Manhattan court, making him the first former president to face criminal prosecution. Save America paid over $1 million in March to legal firms representing Trump in this trial.
The financial strain on Save America comes at a time when President Joe Biden and the Democratic National Committee have expanded their cash advantage over Trump and the GOP. Biden’s campaign committee entered April with $85.5 million in its war chest, while Trump’s main campaign account had $45.1 million.
Despite the financial challenges, Save America has been able to rely on funds clawed back from a Trump super PAC to stay afloat. However, this source of money is expected to run dry soon, as the PAC cannot seek more than $60 million in refunds from the super PAC.
To replenish its resources, Trump’s political team has entered into a joint fundraising agreement with the Republican National Committee and state parties. This agreement prioritizes payments to Save America ahead of contributions to the RNC, ensuring a steady flow of funds for Trump’s political activities.
Overall, the financial challenges faced by Save America highlight the high stakes involved in Trump’s legal battles and political ambitions as he seeks to make a comeback in the upcoming general election campaign.