Trump’s Glitzy $TRUMP Meme Coin Dinner Sparks Crypto Controversy and Protests

President Donald Trump threw a lavish dinner at his Trump National Golf Club in Potomac Falls, Virginia, for top investors in his $TRUMP meme coin, a project that’s stirred both excitement and controversy. Over filet mignon and halibut, Trump told the 220 largest buyers, including a select 25 who enjoyed a VIP reception, that the Biden administration had unfairly targeted crypto innovators. "We’re bringing them back to the USA where they belong," he declared, promising a new era for digital assets.

The event, which required background checks for attendees, saw investors collectively spend $148 million on $TRUMP coins to secure their seats. Outside, protesters waved signs reading "stop crypto corruption" and "no corrupt fools," with Senator Jeff Merkley calling it "the Mount Everest of corruption." Trump, undeterred, spoke for 30 minutes before breaking into a dance to YMCA, all while standing behind a lectern bearing the presidential seal—despite claims he attended in his "personal time."

Launched just days before his January 20 inauguration, the $TRUMP meme coin initially soared but later plummeted in value. Its creators, tied to the Trump Organization, have reportedly earned hundreds of millions through trading fees. Critics warn of potential conflicts of interest, pointing to the unprecedented access granted to high-rolling investors like Chinese billionaire Justin Sun, who spent over $40 million and expressed enthusiasm for discussing crypto’s future with Trump.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the event, insisting Trump complies with all conflict-of-interest laws and dismissing suggestions of profiteering as "absurd." She emphasized Trump’s sacrifices, noting he "almost lost his life" for public service. Still, the glitzy gathering has fueled debate over the intersection of politics, cryptocurrency, and personal gain.