As the 2024 Republican presidential primary race heats up, Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina appears to be attracting increased attention from key GOP donors. Recent reports indicate that billionaire businessman Ronald Lauder, an heir to the Estée Lauder fortune and a previous supporter of Donald Trump, recently met with Scott in South Carolina to discuss the upcoming election. Sources suggest they've maintained contact since, potentially signaling a shift in donor interest.
This development follows the release of Scott's second-quarter fundraising figures, which revealed an impressive $6.1 million haul, mostly accumulated after his official campaign launch in May. With over $21 million cash-on-hand, Scott's financial standing has undoubtedly contributed to the growing interest from influential figures like Lauder.
While former President Trump continues to dominate the polls, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, initially considered a strong contender, has faced increased media scrutiny regarding his campaign's perceived stagnation. This has led some donors to re-evaluate their support, potentially opening the door for candidates like Scott to gain ground.
Although some Republican strategists and consultants acknowledge DeSantis's current challenges, they also emphasize the early stage of the race. Many donors remain undecided, viewing the current landscape as a preliminary phase before the crucial early primaries in Iowa and New Hampshire.
A leaked DeSantis campaign memo outlines a strategy focused on these early voting states, suggesting a deliberate decision to prioritize building momentum in key regions rather than spreading resources thinly across Super Tuesday states. The memo also indicates plans to highlight DeSantis's background and scrutinize his rivals, including Scott.
