Dr. Miriam Adelson, the newly appointed majority owner of the Dallas Mavericks and renowned Republican donor, held a prominent position at President Donald Trump’s 2025 inauguration, showcasing her enduring influence within the GOP.
Seated near high-profile figures such as former Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton, Adelson was part of the limited audience at the Capitol Rotunda, where the inauguration ceremony took place due to inclement weather. This year's event saw approximately 600 attendees, all carefully chosen from members of Congress, Cabinet nominees, Trump's family, and political elites.
Adelson, noted for her formidable financial support of Trump during his campaigns, had previously donated around $100 million to his efforts. Following the passing of her husband Sheldon Adelson, who was instrumental as the founder of the Las Vegas Sands casino company, Miriam has continued to carry the torch of their political philanthropy.
This inauguration marked not just the swearing-in of Trump, but also Adelson's strategic re-emergence as one of the leading figures linked to the former president. The Adelsons have historically been substantial contributors to Republican campaigns, donating upwards of $180 million during the 2020 election alone. Their financial influence has positioned them as key players within Trump’s political theater.
During the ceremonies, Adelson was also noted for her lively interactions, including conversations with Trump’s chief of staff, Susie Wiles, and fellow influential figures, amplifying her visibility and importance at the inauguration.
Interestingly, Miriam Adelson's role is especially significant as she steps forward in her own political endeavors, marking her first solo effort as a donor since her husband's death. Reports indicate she is now exercising greater decision-making power, seen as more calculated compared to her late husband’s more flamboyant approach.
Despite being known for her wealth, estimated at around $35 billion, and her position as one of the world's richest women, Adelson's political stature is primarily backed by her activism supporting pro-Israel initiatives and substantial contributions to Jewish causes.
Her cross-party networking during Trump’s presidency, coupled with the recent signing of the NBA Board of Governors approving her acquisition of the Mavericks, indicates her growing presence beyond just political contributions; it signals her investment in diversifying her influence.
Adelson's involvement as the third biggest donor for Trump's recent campaign—after Elon Musk and Timothy Mellon—further emphasizes her dedication to maintaining Republican interests. Her reappearance and notable interactions at Trump’s inauguration indicate her commitment to shaping the political future alongside figures like the Vances, reinforcing her as a stabilizing force amid concerns within pro-Israel Republican circles.
At the forefront of this year’s inauguration was not just the ceremony itself but the underlying significance of Adelson's position within Trump's political agenda. The notable attendance of tech giants and billionaires only highlights the weight of her presence.
Attending with other titans, including Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk, her strategic seating and participation at Trump’s inauguration is not merely ceremonial. It suggests Adelson remains actively engaged, signaling the continuation of the Adelson legacy within GOP circles.
With the upcoming 2024 elections on the horizon, observers are closely watching Adelson's moves as she previously introduced Trump at rallies, shared her views on fighting antisemitism, and continues to reinforce her commitment to pro-Israel initiatives.
Even as critics raise questions about Trump’s policies and potential vice president J.D. Vance's approaches, Adelson's influential connections—like hosting dinners and events—serve to mitigate any fears within Republican ranks about isolationist perspectives toward Israel.
Indeed, the return to Washington D.C. from her philanthropy work and significant interactions at the inauguration signal not just her wealth but her unwavering commitment to Republican politics, paralleling her husband’s legacy. This presence at Trump’s swearing-in is both strategic and symbolic, setting the stage for what’s to come as she combines her fortunes and strategy within the GOP.
With the 2024 campaign gaining momentum, Miriam Adelson's involvement resonates with much of Trump's support base who rely on her financial backing and her historical commitment to the Republican platform.
Whether through political endorsements or direct support of key platforms, Adelson appears poised to play an enduring role as Trump thrusts for another successful run, continuing the influence she cultivated alongside her late husband.