Allies of former President Trump are currently reaching out to wealthy individuals in the vibrant Los Angeles scene, likely to confront hedge fund CEO Ken Griffin, who is facing challenges due to tariffs.
Traditionally, Griffin and his firm Citadel host a high-profile welcome event during the Milken Institute Global Conference, where guests enjoy champagne. This year, however, Griffin plans a lavish gathering at the Beverly Hills Hilton, costing up to $50,000, while a competing event will be hosted at the Beverly Hills Peninsula.
An invitation to Rick Grennell’s exclusive backdoor gathering, obtained by the Post, revealed that Treasury Secretary Scott Bescent will speak at 4 PM Pacific time on Sunday.
“This will be a unique opportunity for direct conversation with Bescent,” one insider remarked.
Sources linked to the event’s organizers noted there would be only 75 available spots, though this hasn’t been officially stated.
It’s suggested that this alternate gathering arose as a response to Griffin’s continuous and harsh public critiques of Trump’s trade and immigration policies.
“It’s going to be a clash of nationalist and globalist perspectives in Beverly Hills,” former White House chief strategist Steve Bannon commented.
Reports indicate that there is an effort to engage with Griffin following his accusations against Trump for allegedly damaging American “brands” due to tariffs placed on imports.
“We jeopardized the brand,” Griffin remarked last month. “It might take a long time to restore its reputation.”
Bannon criticized Griffin, labeling him as an “out-of-touch, ignorant billionaire,” claiming that he has worked against populist nationalism in the U.S.
“Ken Griffin viewed thwarting political populism as crucial, which is contradictory to what we aim for,” Bannon stated.
A major GOP donor reportedly suggested Trump appoint Apollo Global Management CEO Marc Rowan instead of the current Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent.
According to insiders, Rowan’s chances of inclusion in the administration were deemed a “non-starter” due to his opposition to tariffs.
Griffin had also held back from publicly endorsing Trump prior to his election win over Kamala Harris, eventually confessing he did vote for him.
“Building his grand estate in Palm Beach only underlines his Louis XVI-like politics,” Bannon added.
The Post previously highlighted Griffin’s recent construction of a $1 billion estate spanning 20 acres, which he developed after relocating from Chicago to the tax-friendly Miami area in 2022.
The Milken Institute Global Conference, now in its 28th year, is dedicated to addressing social issues through free market principles.
Organizers claim the event aims to explore solutions leading to a sustainable and just future, commencing today in Los Angeles.
Attendees will have the chance to hear from former First Lady Jill Biden, who has recently taken a lead role at the Milken Institute, established by Michael Milken, known as the former “Junk Bond King” of Wall Street.
Billionaires attending the event can also participate in wellness activities like yoga, meditation, and various “healing sessions,” according to the schedule.
Milken, once embroiled in scandal after an insider trading investigation in 1989, pleaded guilty to a securities violation, serving approximately two years in prison before turning to charitable work.
