Money Talks: Texas Senator Candidate's Surprising Donors
Big Tech and Crypto Backing a Democrat
Rep. Jasmine Crockett, a Texas Democrat known for her fiery reputation, is making headlines in her U.S. Senate run. What's surprising is the source of her campaign cash.
Unlikely Donors
- Marc Andreessen, a tech billionaire, donated the maximum allowed amount. He's known for funding crypto and GOP-aligned Super PACs.
- The Winklevoss twins, famous for their crypto ventures, also contributed the maximum. They've been strong supporters of pro-Trump crypto efforts.
Defense Contractors Chipping In
Crockett hasn't shied away from taking money from defense giants either. Lockheed Martin, a major defense contractor, has contributed through its PAC. Notably, Lockheed usually splits its donations between Democrats and Republicans.
Crypto Executives Backing Crockett
Other big names in crypto have also supported her:
- Executives from Solana, Coinbase, and Uniswap have all contributed.
- This has raised concerns among progressive groups, who worry that taking money from these industries could weaken her populist message.
A Polarizing Figure
Crockett's campaign style has made her a polarizing figure in the Democratic Party. Her primary opponent, James Talarico, is a younger state lawmaker with strong grassroots support. Talarico's campaign is largely funded by small donors, with most contributions under $100.
Polling and the Role of Money
Recent polls show Talarico ahead by about 9 points. The race is heating up, and it's clear that money is playing a big role. Both candidates are navigating the tricky waters of campaign financing, trying to balance big donations with grassroots support.
