Vance raises $5 million at big Hamptons event

Vice President Vance hosted a Wednesday evening fundraiser in Southampton, N.Y., for young Republican donors that raised more than $5 million, Axios has learned.

Why it matters: The event drew several up-and-coming donors in their 20s and 30s — providing a glimpse into the finance network Vance is assembling ahead of a possible run for president in 2028.

The players: The fundraiser, which drew about 35 people, was held at the home of 1789 Capital President Omeed Malik.

• Attendees included Donald Trump Jr., Polymarket founder Shayne Coplan and GRV Strategies founder Garrett Ventry.
• Cantor Fitzgerald President Brandon Lutnick, the son of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, was also there, along with World Liberty Financial co-founder Zach Witkoff, son of senior Trump adviser Steve Witkoff.
• Chris Buskirk, a key Vance ally and president of the Rockbridge Network, was a host.

After a reception, there was a more intimate dinner with about 20 people. Reception-goers donated $100,000 to the Republican National Committee. Those at the dinner gave $250,000.

The background: Vance is the RNC's finance chair, a position that has given him entree to the party's top donors.

• The vice president has hosted dozens of fundraising events across the country since taking the post last year.
• Vance allies say the relationships he's developed in the position have helped him build the kind of fundraising apparatus he'll need if he runs for president.

Vance is expected to reach a decision about his 2028 plans sometime after the Nov. 3 midterm elections.