President Biden arrived at JFK Airport on Thursday to attend a high-profile fundraiser with former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton. The event, held at Radio City Music Hall, is expected to set a record for a single fundraising event, as Biden aims to build a substantial financial advantage over his presumptive Republican opponent, Donald Trump. However, the President’s visit coincides with the killing of NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller, whose wake is set to be attended by Trump.
Biden, accompanied by Obama, landed at JFK Airport shortly after noon, just six miles away from where Officer Diller was tragically gunned down in Far Rockaway. Meanwhile, Trump’s scheduled appearance at the wake in Massapequa, half an hour away from the airport, creates an awkward split-screen situation for Biden as he attends the long-planned fundraiser.
Prior to Air Force One’s arrival, 34-year-old ex-convict Guy Rivera was charged with first-degree murder in Officer Diller’s death. Rivera has a history of 21 prior arrests and was on parole until last year after serving a five-year prison sentence for a drug conviction. Mayor Eric Adams, a former NYPD officer, is also expected to attend Officer Diller’s wake.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre informed reporters on Air Force One that President Biden had spoken with Mayor Adams over the phone to express his condolences for Officer Diller’s death. However, it was not mentioned whether the President had reached out to the officer’s family directly. Jean-Pierre emphasized that the President grieves for the fallen officer and honors his sacrifice.
Later in the evening, CBS “Late Show” host Stephen Colbert will moderate a discussion with the three Democratic presidents at Radio City Music Hall. The event, attended by some of the nation’s wealthiest individuals, will feature renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz capturing photos of the trio. The Biden campaign has labeled the fundraiser as “the most successful political fundraiser in American history” in a press release. Over 5,000 supporters are expected to attend the sold-out event, with thousands more watching online.
Comedian Mindy Kaling will host a portion of the fundraiser, which will also include performances by Queen Latifah, Lizzo, Ben Platt, Cynthia Erivo, and Lea Michele. Meanwhile, Trump has attempted to redirect attention from the fundraiser, stating in a fundraising email, “Remember, my campaign isn’t powered by the Hollywood ‘elite’ writing 6-figure checks – IT’S POWERED BY YOU!”
On the Truth Social platform, Trump commented on Officer Diller’s murder, expressing his support for the officer’s family and all law enforcement personnel. Trump highlighted the suspect’s extensive criminal history and criticized his release from prison, stating that he should never have been allowed back on the streets.
