Trump Fundraiser Draws More Ire, Critics

RANCHO MIRAGE — The by-invitation-only Trump fundraiser planned for Wednesday, Feb. 19 at Larry Ellison’s Porcupine Creek estate has not only ignited calls for a protest among Democrats, but also triggered a minirebellion at Oracle, where some employees are blasting the tech mogul’s “alliance with this ignoble and destructive figure,” according to Business Insider.

A group of employees is circulating a petition that calls on the Oracle leadership to take a stand against what they call Ellison’s “damaging association with the Trump campaign, according to Business Insider .” The petition also calls for Ellison to cancel the event.

“His alliance with this ignoble and destructive figure damages our company culture as well as our relationships with partners and customers,” the petition, which was first reported by Vox, said.

“Ellison’s financial support of Donald Trump endangers the well-being of women, immigrants, communities of color, the environment, LGBTQ and trans communities, disabled people, and workers everywhere,” the petition added.

The petition launched on Friday and so far has more than 1,000 signatures from alleged employees, according to Time. (The computer technology company employs around 136,000 people worldwide).

Local Democrats are expecting at least 500 protesters from throughout the region to welcome the Trump motorcade when it arrives in the Coachella Valley, according to  Bill Holzhauer, one of the organizers. More than 1,200 people have expressed interest in the event, he said.

Meanwhile, Coachella Valley Republicans, led by East Valley Republican Women Federated, are building momentum to rally support for President Trump when he visits the desert next week for the private fundraiser.

Republicans are urged to dress in patriotic gear and bring signs that are in good taste.

The Trump fundraiser will include a golf outing at Ellison’s home, according to CNBC. Supporters will have to pay $100,000 for the golf outing and to have their photo taken with the president. Supporters can pay $250,000 for a photo, golf outing, plus participation in a round table with the president.