Power and Influence: Unveiling the Top Jewish Political Donors Shaping the 2020 US Election Landscape

In the dynamic landscape of the 2020 US election cycle, a group of influential Jewish political donors has been actively shaping the political terrain. While attention often gravitates towards figures like George Soros, it is essential to recognize the diverse array of top Jewish donors who have played a pivotal role in this year's high-stakes elections.

1. Tom Steyer: Leading with Democratic Support Leading the pack is Tom Steyer, a hedge funder with a strong Democratic background, who has generously donated over $54 million to Democrats. Surprisingly, Steyer has also contributed $35,000 to Republicans, showcasing the breadth of his influence beyond his personal campaign.

2. Stephen and Christine Schwarzman: Republican Support and Controversy Stephen and Christine Schwarzman, with a combined donation of $28.4 million to Republicans and a nominal amount to Democrats, have made their mark. Stephen Schwarzman, the CEO of Blackstone, stirred controversy with his brief association with the Trump administration.

3. Sheldon and Miriam Adelson: Pro-Israel Advocates Known for their support of Republican candidates and pro-Israel causes, Sheldon and Miriam Adelson have contributed $28 million to Republicans. Their endorsement of Trump in 2016 had a significant impact, influencing other Jewish donors to support the candidate.

4. Donald Sussman: Philanthropy and Democratic Ties With close ties to the Clintons, Donald Sussman, a donor of $22.3 million, has primarily supported Democratic candidates. His involvement with Israel's Weizmann Institute reflects his strong philanthropic commitments.

5. James and Marilyn Simons: Wall Street Philanthropists James Simons, a prominent Wall Street financier, and his wife have contributed nearly $21 million to Democrats. Their philanthropy extends through the Simons Foundation, focusing on various charitable causes.

6. Michael Bloomberg: Defeating Trump's Commitment Former New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg, with a donation of $19.3 million to Democrats, has been committed to defeating Trump in the 2020 election, marking a notable point in his political journey.

7. Jeffrey and Janine Yass: Libertarian Support Jeffrey Yass, a libertarian, has donated over $13 million, primarily to Republican causes, extending his support to organizations like Save the Children and the Cato Institute.

8. Deborah Simon: Progressive Advocacy Daughter of the late Mel Simon, Deborah has contributed $12.5 million to Democrats, aligning her strong advocacy for progressive and Jewish causes with her philanthropic giving.

9. Henry and Marsha Laufer: Finance Background and Democratic Commitment The Laufers, with a donation of $11.8 million to Democrats, showcase a commitment to Democratic candidates and the party, combining Henry's finance background with Marsha's role as a former Democratic Party chair.

10. Joshua and Anita Bekenstein: Co-founder of Bain Joshua Bekenstein, co-chairman of Bain and co-founder by Mitt Romney, has donated nearly $11 million to Democrats, operating a donor-advised fund through the Combined Jewish Philanthropies of Boston.

11. Bernard and Billi Wilma Marcus: Home Depot Co-founder Marcus, co-founder of Home Depot, and his foundation have donated $9.7 million, with the majority going to Republicans, sparking controversies and boycotts due to his pro-Trump stance.

12. Paul Singer: LGBTQ Rights Advocate Singer, a hedge funder advocating for LGBTQ rights within the Republican Party, has contributed $8.8 million to Republicans, impacting the party's direction significantly.

13. Stephen and Susan Mandel: Philanthropy in Education Stephen Mandel, a hedge fund manager, and his wife have donated $8.8 million to Democrats, focusing their philanthropy on education issues and supporting candidates across the country.

14. George Soros: Hedge Funder and Philanthropist George Soros, a Hungarian-born Holocaust survivor, has contributed $8.2 million to Democrats. His history as a hedge funder and philanthropist has been marked by both praise and controversy, with a focus on promoting democracy and progressive causes.

15. Steve and Connie Ballmer: Tech CEO's Democratic Support Steve Ballmer, former Microsoft CEO and owner of the NBA's Los Angeles Clippers, has donated $7.5 million to Democratic groups, aligning his philanthropic giving with his advocacy for gun control and Democratic causes.

These influential Jewish donors have played a crucial role in financing campaigns and advocating for their chosen candidates in the 2020 US election cycle. Their contributions have not only made headlines but also shaped the political landscape, reflecting the diverse spectrum of Jewish philanthropy and political involvement in American politics. As the election season progresses, the rankings and dynamics are likely to evolve, emphasizing the ongoing impact of these donors on the electoral process.