President Joe Biden issued a series of strong warnings about the potential consequences of a second Donald Trump term during a high-profile fundraiser in Los Angeles on Saturday evening, calling the upcoming 2024 presidential election a crucial moment in American history. “Institutions matter,” the president emphasized. “What (Trump) did on January 6, and now he’s literally saying if he doesn’t win there’ll be a bloodbath — it’s outrageous. What he’s talking about is outrageous.”
The fundraiser, which included appearances by former President Barack Obama and was hosted by television personality Jimmy Kimmel, raised over $30 million for Biden’s reelection campaign, according to a campaign official who spoke to CNN. During the event, Biden highlighted the potential impact of a second Trump term on the Supreme Court, warning that more conservative justices could be appointed if Trump were to win re-election. “The idea that if he’s reelected he’s going to appoint two more flying flags upside down,” Biden remarked.
When asked by Kimmel if he considered the appointment of more conservative justices the scariest aspect of a hypothetical second Trump term, Biden responded, “It is one of the scariest parts.” He also expressed concern over the current composition of the Supreme Court, particularly in light of recent rulings, including the decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and possible reconsideration of other issues like contraception.
Former President Obama also spoke at the fundraiser, urging attendees to consider the broader implications of a potential Trump re-election beyond just voting against him. “We have someone to worry about. And there’s a whole agenda that we should be concerned about,” Obama stated. First Lady Dr. Jill Biden echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing her husband’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting democracy.
The evening also featured appearances by celebrities like George Clooney, Julia Roberts, and Barbra Streisand, among others. The event concluded with a light-hearted exchange between Biden and Kimmel about the possibility of retribution against a talk show host who had been critical of the president. “Ever heard of Delta Force?” Biden quipped before addressing the seriousness of such threats in the context of American democracy.
The fundraiser highlighted the urgency and stakes of the upcoming presidential election, framing it as a pivotal moment in determining the future direction of the country.
