Trump builds unprecedented political machine to cement GOP control 

Donald Trump

US President Donald Trump has assembled one of the most powerful and well-funded political operations in American history, raising around half a billion dollars—matching the GOP's entire midterm campaign spend—to enforce his agenda and cement control over the Republican Party, as reported by Axios.

Despite not being up for re-election, Trump has mobilised two major super PACs—MAGA Inc. and Securing American Greatness—to reward loyal Republicans and target dissenters in the 2026 elections. The strategy, amplified by Elon Musk's America PAC and control over social platforms like X and Truth Social, ensures that any GOP critics could face swift primary challenges and relentless messaging attacks.

“Right now, there's a huge price to pay by crossing Donald Trump,” said GOP strategist Corry Bliss. “When you combine a 92% approval rating among Republican voters with unlimited money, that equals: 'Yes, sir.'”

Strategic fundraising and influence building 

Trump’s fundraising machine began immediately after Election Day, with calls to major donors and exclusive fundraising events—like a recent $1 million-a-plate dinner at Mar-a-Lago attended by Republican mega-donor Miriam Adelson.

The Trump political apparatus is spearheaded by campaign veterans Chris LaCivita and pollster Tony Fabrizio, alongside the White House’s political team led by Susie Wiles and James Blair. Though the super PACs haven't aggressively spent yet, they're poised to pressure lawmakers and influence elections when necessary.

Musk’s America PAC, which was funded with over $250 million last year, recently launched ads praising Trump’s leadership, reinforcing the partnership.

A juggernaut of political power 

The combined financial strength, political connections, and media influence of Trump and Musk represent an unprecedented force in GOP politics. “Trump’s outside political operation is a juggernaut that will be one of the most dominant forces in modern elections,” said Jason Thielman, former executive director of the National Republican Senatorial Committee.