Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, one of the wealthiest people in the world, has supported vice president and Democratic candidate Kamala Harris with a secret donation of $50 million, according to The New York Times.
According to sources consulted by the newspaper, Gates reportedly mentioned privately that he recently made this contribution to a nonprofit organization supporting Harris's presidential candidacy. Despite his financial support, Gates has not publicly endorsed the Democratic leader.
In a statement to The New York Times, Gates expressed: "I support candidates who demonstrate a clear commitment to improving healthcare, reducing poverty, and combating climate change in the U.S.," justifying his donation.
The businessman and philanthropist has discussed his contribution with Mike Bloomberg, former mayor of New York and prominent supporter of Future Forward, who has also considered making a similar donation. Some billionaire donors supporting Harris choose to keep their contributions secret as a precaution against potential backlash from Trump if he is re-elected.
Engineer and magnate Elon Musk, currently the richest person in the world, has invested over $75 million in the campaign to re-elect Trump, The New York Times reveals. On the other hand, Bill Gates has expressed concern about potential cuts to global health and family planning programs in the event of a second Trump presidency.
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Gates's philanthropic organization, has expressed apprehension about the possible consequences of a second Trump term. Gates has stated that he would be willing to work with any candidate; however, his recent secret donation reinforces his support for Kamala Harris.
