DORAL, FLORIDA—On Monday, Donald Trump made a parallel between himself and iconic figures like The Beatles and Elvis Presley while highlighting his exceptional fundraising abilities.
At his golf resort, the president addressed an enthusiastic gathering of congressional allies and supporters, asserting that he stands shoulder to shoulder with the legendary British band and the king of rock music.
He remarked that just as the Beatles captivated massive audiences with their fanfare, his telethon-style town halls have garnered similar attention and significance.
“We connect with around 25-30,000 participants, predominantly from a congressional base, and they achieve victories effortlessly,” Trump stated. “What works for The Beatles and Elvis doesn’t apply to others—but it works for Trump.”
“We have successfully raised a substantial amount of funds—a significant sum—and our unique tele-town halls are extraordinarily effective in ways no one else has managed to replicate,” he added. “With those tele-town halls, we’ve successfully helped many get elected.”
The president has consistently likened himself to Elvis, even referencing his resemblance to the singer during a 2018 campaign event in Tupelo, Mississippi, where he remarked, “Aside from the blond hair, people told me I looked like Elvis when I was younger. Can you believe that? I always took that as a tremendous compliment.”
Sitting on a substantial post-election financial reserve of $500 million, Trump inquired of Speaker Mike Johnson about the possibility of pursuing another term.
“I’ve accumulated a significant amount of funds for the upcoming race, which I assume I cannot use personally, but I’m not entirely sure. I believe I’m not eligible to run again, but I’m uncertain. Am I still allowed to run, Mike? I hope I’m not putting you in a tricky position with that question.”
While Trump might have been lighthearted about the subject, several conservative lawmakers have expressed their willingness to entertain such a notion.
Representative Andy Ogles, affiliated with the ultraconservative House Freedom Caucus, has recently brought forth a resolution aimed at modifying the U.S. Constitution to permit Trump to pursue a third term, complete with provisions to prevent former President Barack Obama from attempting another candidacy.
Trump’s appearance coincided with House Republicans convening at his club through Wednesday morning, where they strategize on how to implement the agenda of the newly inaugurated president. Vice President J.D. Vance is expected to hold discussions with members on Tuesday as Republicans aim to advance critical pieces of legislation while managing a narrow majority.
