Miriam Adelson Takes Prominent Role at Trump’s Inauguration

Miriam Adelson, the influential pro-Israel philanthropist, played a prominent role at Donald Trump’s inauguration on Monday as the 47th president of the United States. Viewers saw Adelson, 79, speaking with key political figures, including Trump’s chief of staff Susie Wiles and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

Adelson, who alongside her late husband Sheldon Adelson shaped decades of pro-Israel advocacy and political philanthropy, is continuing her legacy with deliberate and strategic moves. Her involvement underscores her role as a powerful force in pro-Israel politics and the Republican Party.

Adelson’s contributions to Trump’s campaign amounted to at least $100 million in 2024, making her one of the largest donors, alongside Elon Musk and Timothy Mellon. During the campaign, she introduced Trump at a speech on combating antisemitism and attended a ceremony at Mar-a-Lago marking one year since Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.

At Sunday night’s pre-inauguration party, Adelson appeared alongside Vice President J.D. Vance and his wife, Usha, reassuring pro-Israel Republicans concerned about Vance’s isolationist leanings. Her presence and influence highlight her ability to bridge gaps and reinforce commitments to Israel within the new administration.

Adelson is co-hosting Monday night’s inaugural ball with Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, further demonstrating her deep connections within influential circles. While her late husband was known for his aggressive political involvement, Miriam Adelson is regarded as more calculated, focusing her estimated $35 billion net worth on carefully chosen causes and candidates.

With her involvement in Trump’s campaign and administration, Miriam Adelson remains a pivotal figure in shaping U.S. policy toward Israel and strengthening ties between the two nations.

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