President Biden’s visit to the Westchester County home of Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones for a campaign fundraiser caused significant traffic disruptions in towns along the Hudson River. A 2-mile stretch of Route 9 was closed for the president’s arrival, leading to frustration among residents and commuters. Streets in Irvington were blocked off with new signage limiting access to local traffic only, prompting government offices and five school districts in the area to close early and cancel after-school programs.
The fundraiser, attended by around 100 people in the backyard of Douglas and Zeta-Jones’ estate, featured speeches from both the Hollywood stars and President Biden. Douglas praised Biden as an “extraordinary, seasoned veteran,” while the president joked about their marriages to women above their stations. Biden also took jabs at former President Donald Trump, poking fun at his financial troubles and criticizing his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. The event was hosted by several high-profile individuals, with tickets ranging from $3,300 to $100,000.
Prior to the fundraiser, Biden visited Syracuse to promote subsidies given to semiconductor manufacturer Micron through the CHIPS Act. Following the event, he traveled to Westchester County Airport from John F. Kennedy Airport before arriving at Douglas and Zeta-Jones’ home in Irvington. The president’s visit, which included road closures and increased security measures, disrupted daily life in the area and caused frustration among residents who felt their routines were disrupted.
While the exact amount raised during the fundraiser has not been disclosed, the event was attended by influential individuals from various industries. The gathering highlighted the intersection of politics, celebrity, and wealth, with attendees paying a significant sum for the opportunity to interact with Biden and support his campaign. Despite the traffic headaches and inconvenience caused by the event, the president’s visit to the upscale fundraiser was seen as a strategic move to rally support and financial contributions ahead of the upcoming election cycle.
Overall, President Biden’s fundraising event at the home of Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones was met with mixed reactions from residents and commuters in the area. The star-studded affair brought together influential figures in politics, entertainment, and business, underscoring the interconnectedness of wealth and power in contemporary American society. While the president’s visit was marked by road closures, security measures, and disruptions to daily life, the event ultimately served its purpose of raising funds and generating support for Biden’s political initiatives.
