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Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)
Gates has expressed concern about the implications of a second Trump presidency. (Photo Credit: X)
Bill Gates secretly donated $50 million to support Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign, expressing concern over a potential second Trump presidency.
Bill Gates, one of the richest people in the world, has donated USD 50 million to a nonprofit organisation supporting Democratic Presidential candidate Kamala Harris, according to The New York Times. The donation was intended to remain confidential, as Gates has not publicly endorsed Harris, who is running against Republican Donald Trump in the upcoming November 5 election.
Microsoft co-founder’s donation went to Future Forward’s nonprofit arm, Future Forward USA Action, which as a “dark money” group does not disclose its donors, according to the report. Therefore, any contribution by the top US billionaire will never appear on any public filing.
In private, Gates has reportedly expressed concern about the implications of a second Trump presidency. His philanthropic organisation, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is particularly worried about potential cuts to family planning and global health programs if Trump is re-elected. Despite his concerns, Gates has emphasised that he is willing to work with either candidate.
In a statement responding to the NYT report, he highlighted his commitment to bipartisanship, noting that “this election is different.” “I support candidates who demonstrate a clear commitment to improving health care, reducing poverty, and fighting climate change in the US and around the world,” Gates said.
He underlined his history of collaborating with leaders from both parties but insisted that this election carries “unprecedented significance” for Americans and vulnerable populations globally. In July, following US President Joe Biden’s decision not to seek re-election, Gates spoke positively about Harris becoming the Democratic nominee, stressing her youth and ability to engage with contemporary issues.
While Harris recently turned 60, her opponent, Trump, is 78, making him the oldest presidential nominee in US history. Gates’ ex-wife, Melinda French Gates, has publicly endorsed Harris, joining at least 81 other billionaires who have backed the candidate in her campaign against Trump. In contrast, Elon Musk, one of the world’s wealthiest individuals, is backing Trump.