LOS ANGELES — Late-night television host Jimmy Kimmel is set to headline a high-profile fundraiser for House Democrats next month, according to multiple reports. The event, organized by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), will take place on March 10 in Los Angeles and feature Kimmel alongside House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
Ticket prices for the benefit dinner range from $25,000 to more than $300,000, as detailed in an invitation shared by New York Times reporter Teddy Schleifer on Tuesday. Schleifer, who covers political fundraising, posted the invitation on social media, highlighting Kimmel's role as the special guest. The event aims to bolster Democratic efforts in the House of Representatives ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Politico reported that two individuals familiar with the fundraiser, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss the details, confirmed Kimmel's participation. "This is a significant gathering for Democratic supporters in Hollywood," one source told Politico, emphasizing the star power involved. Fox News Digital, which first reported on the invitation, reached out to the DCCC and Kimmel's representatives for comment but did not immediately receive a response.
Kimmel, a longtime supporter of the Democratic Party, has increasingly used his platform to engage in political activism. In June 2024, he hosted a similar Los Angeles fundraiser for then-President Joe Biden's re-election campaign, which drew celebrity attendees including George Clooney, Julia Roberts, and former President Barack Obama. That event reportedly raised over $30 million, according to organizers.
The Biden fundraiser gained additional attention when a video clip surfaced showing what appeared to be Obama guiding Biden off the stage, sparking widespread online discussion. Just one month later, in July 2024, Biden announced his withdrawal from the presidential race, paving the way for Vice President Kamala Harris to become the Democratic nominee.
Following Biden's exit, Kimmel shifted his support to Harris, openly endorsing her in a fundraising email obtained by Fox News Digital. "Sorry to break your cold little heart, Donald, but I endorse Kamala Harris for president," the email stated. "I've had the privilege of interviewing our Vice President several times. She is a kind, brilliant and delightful person who cares very much about our country."
Kimmel's endorsement came amid his evolution from an apolitical comedian to a vocal Democratic advocate. Over the years, he has participated in numerous fundraisers and events to support Democratic candidates. In 2024, he also campaigned for Nevada Sen. Jacky Rosen during a Las Vegas rally, where he praised her work on issues like veterans' affairs and economic policy.
The upcoming March 10 event underscores Kimmel's continued commitment to Democratic causes, particularly in the entertainment industry hub of Los Angeles. Political fundraisers in Hollywood have long been a staple for Democrats, often featuring A-list celebrities to attract high-dollar donors. The inclusion of Jeffries and Pelosi, both influential figures in House Democratic leadership, signals the party's focus on maintaining control or regaining the majority in the lower chamber of Congress.
Jeffries, who assumed the role of minority leader after the 2022 midterms, has been instrumental in coordinating Democratic strategy against the Republican majority. Pelosi, who served as speaker from 2019 to 2023, remains a powerhouse in fundraising circles despite stepping back from leadership. Her presence at the event is expected to draw longtime supporters and major contributors.
This fundraiser comes at a time when Democrats are regrouping after the 2024 election losses, including Harris's defeat to President-elect Donald Trump. House Democrats, currently in the minority, are eyeing opportunities to flip seats in competitive districts, particularly in California and other Western states where entertainment industry donors play a key role.
Kimmel's involvement also highlights the intersection of late-night television and politics. As host of ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" since 2003, he has interviewed numerous political figures and used his monologues to comment on current events. His shift toward activism has drawn both praise from liberals and criticism from conservatives, who have accused him of bias in his commentary.
In a related development last year, Kimmel was at the center of a controversy involving FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, who stood by comments made during a public dispute over broadcast standards. Carr, a Trump appointee, defended his stance without regrets, according to reports. While not directly connected to the fundraiser, the episode underscored the scrutiny faced by figures like Kimmel in the media landscape.
Looking ahead, the March 10 event could set the tone for Democratic fundraising in the post-2024 era. With ticket prices reaching six figures, it targets ultra-wealthy donors who have historically fueled party efforts. Organizers hope to replicate or exceed the success of the Biden event, which demonstrated the drawing power of celebrity-hosted galas.
As preparations continue, political observers will watch closely for any announcements from the DCCC regarding additional guests or themes. Kimmel's role, in particular, may energize younger donors and reinforce Hollywood's alignment with Democratic priorities on issues like climate change, healthcare, and social justice.
The fundraiser also reflects broader trends in political financing, where high-profile events in major cities like Los Angeles serve as networking hubs for influencers and policymakers. Whether it translates into tangible gains for House Democrats remains to be seen, but it reaffirms Kimmel's status as a key player in the party's ecosystem.