Jimmy Kimmel Hosts Fundraiser for Democrats in Hollywood
Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel organized a fundraiser this week for Democrats in Hollywood, with notable attendees including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
The event successfully raised over $2 million, aimed at bolstering Democratic efforts to regain control of the U.S. House of Representatives ahead of the midterm elections in November.
The reception and dinner included Kimmel as host, alongside co-hosts James Kostos and Michael Smith, as well as Martha Kirsch. Among the guests were various candidates hoping to turn Republican districts blue, like Kelly Robinson, President of the Human Rights Campaign, and former Representative Gabby Giffords.
Approximately 50 donors contributed to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, responsible for reclaiming the House. Ticket prices were substantial, ranging from $23,000 to $310,100.
The co-hosting team featured Morgan and Deral Cox, John Emerson and Kimberly Murtaugh Emerson, Carol Hamilton and David Cohn, plus several others, including Shonda Rhimes and the Human Rights Campaign PAC.
Kostos, who has experience as a former U.S. ambassador and HBO executive, described the atmosphere as upbeat and vibrant.
“What really stood out was the energy in the room,” he mentioned, expressing a sense of optimism. “Democrats are back and active, and the momentum is on our side.”
He emphasized the need to support Americans currently facing hardships due to the previous administration’s policies. “Taking back the House is the way to do that,” he added.
In September, Kimmel faced a brief suspension from Disney after making controversial remarks about the assassin of conservative figure Charlie Kirk, suggesting ties to right-wing ideology, despite contrasting evidence. This suspension was also linked to broadcast affiliates, Nexstar and Sinclair’s refusal to air the show in their regions.
Nexstar deemed Kimmel’s comments “offensive and insensitive at a critical time in the national political debate” and expressed hope for more respectful dialogue in the future.
Kimmel eventually returned to his program, clarifying that it was never his intention to trivialize the tragedy. “I posted a message on Instagram to send my love and sympathy to his family. I meant it, and I still do,” he explained in his monologue.
