Georgia Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff is scheduled to attend a high-profile fundraiser in Los Angeles next week, drawing attention amid speculation about a potential presidential bid. The event, slated for September 10th at the home of Dayna Bochco, widow of television producer Steven Bochco, is co-hosted by philanthropist Ada Horwich, businessman Tom Unterman and his wife Janet, and filmmaker Jake Kasdan and his wife, singer Inara George.
Tickets for the fundraiser start at $500, with co-hosts expected to raise or contribute $7,000. This event follows recent donor meetings in the Hamptons, part of a broader pattern of political figures engaging with influential donors and industry players. An insider described the summer as a period of "presidential speed dating" for politicians like Ossoff, Rahm Emanuel, Josh Shapiro, JB Pritzker, and Andy Beshear.
Ossoff, 39, was first elected to the Senate in 2021. He is currently leading Republican Rep. Mike Collins with 50% to 43% in the Georgia U.S. Senate race, according to a recent poll. Political observers note that a Democratic victory in Georgia is significant in itself and that Ossoff is "having a moment."
Despite stating he has "zero interest" in a 2028 presidential run, Ossoff has gained national attention for a viral speech criticizing former President Trump's policies and handling of foreign affairs. The speech specifically mentioned Trump aide Natalie Harp and the Iran war. One political advisor suggested that a strong victory in his Senate race could increase pressure on Ossoff to enter the Democratic presidential primary.
Early polling indicates Ossoff trails current frontrunners, including Vice President Kamala Harris and California Governor Gavin Newsom. However, he has shown recent gains. A Morning Consult poll shows Ossoff with 7% support, a 6% increase since May, and marks him as the only Democratic candidate to achieve gains in three consecutive polls. The advisor also commented that Ossoff's increasing engagement with the entertainment industry could pose a challenge to Newsom's potential presidential aspirations.
Ossoff previously secured support from entertainment figures such as Debra Messing, John Leguizamo, Kristen Bell, Alyssa Milano, Connie Britton, Jessica Lange, and Chelsea Handler during his past campaigns.