Matt Damon and Lin-Manuel Miranda headline NYC fundraiser for Harris

A high-profile fundraiser for Vice President Kamala Harris is set to take place in New York on September 18, featuring prominent figures from Hollywood, including actor Matt Damon and Broadway creator Lin-Manuel Miranda. The event, which has tickets priced at $25,000 per person, aims to bolster Harris's presidential campaign as she navigates a competitive political landscape. Luis A. Miranda, Jr., Lin-Manuel's father and chair of the Latino Victory, will co-host the gathering, emphasizing the urgency of supporting democracy in the current climate. The fundraiser follows Harris's recent debate against former President Trump, which has intensified her campaign efforts. In late August, her campaign reported raising an impressive $540 million since she became the nominee, indicating a strong financial backing that has allowed her to gain momentum against Trump, who previously held a fundraising advantage over President Biden. The event is part of a series of fundraisers scheduled throughout September, which will also feature Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and various members of Congress. The involvement of high-profile celebrities like Damon and Miranda highlights the significance of celebrity endorsements in modern political campaigns, as they can attract attention and financial support. Additionally, pop star Taylor Swift recently endorsed Harris, urging voters to educate themselves on the candidates' policies. This endorsement, along with the upcoming fundraiser, reflects a concerted effort by the Democratic Party to rally support and resources as the election approaches, underscoring the importance of grassroots and celebrity-driven fundraising in contemporary politics.