Bloomberg’s charitable donations went to cities whose mayors he then asked for 2020 endorsements

Michael Bloomberg’s philanthropic donations over the years have helped the billionaire Democratic presidential candidate secure allegiance from city and party leaders who might otherwise find parts of his record problematic if they were not dependent on his charitable giving.

Bloomberg’s philanthropy skyrocketed in 2019, ahead of the former New York City mayor declaring his candidacy for president. Bloomberg donated $3.3 billion last year, which was more than he gave the previous five years combined, according to a New York Times analysis of his charitable donations.

The donations fall in line with his personal interests, but they are also fused with his political fixations, including public health and safety, education, climate change, and culture and arts.

More