White House Seeks Corporate Sponsorship for Easter Egg Roll Amidst Tech Criticism
In a move that has sparked discussions, the White House is reaching out to corporate sponsors for this year’s Easter Egg Roll, a tradition held on the South Lawn. This decision comes at a time when tech billionaires are facing scrutiny for their connections with the Trump administration.
According to a White House statement, “In addition to the classic Egg Roll and Egg Hunt—both featuring real, small- and medium-sized eggs donated by American egg farmers—guests will enjoy a wide array of entertaining activities thanks to the White House Historical Association and its partnerships.”
Among the companies listed as sponsors are YouTube, Amazon, and Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram. This sponsorship comes as tech leaders like Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, and Sundar Pichai face criticism for their companies’ donations to Trump’s inauguration fund and interactions with the former president.
Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, stands out for his unprecedented influence within the Trump White House, raising concerns about the blurring lines between business and government.
CNN reported earlier this month that the White House is seeking sponsors for the traditionally apolitical event at costs ranging from $75,000 to $200,000. The funds raised are intended for the White House Historical Association, a nonprofit organization.
NPR reached out to the sponsoring companies for comments, but they have yet to respond.
This annual event traces its roots back to President Rutherford B. Hayes in 1878, and has continued, except during wartime and food shortages. This year’s event is notable for using eggs donated by American farmers amidst record-high egg prices influenced by an avian flu outbreak.
President Trump and the Easter Bunny wave during the annual White House Easter Egg Roll on the South Lawn on April 22, 2019. Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images
