NationalJournal.com – Among the elite and deep-pocketed GOP fundraisers and donors at the convention, few can rival Paul Singer, a New York hedge-fund tycoon who has raked in more than $500,000 for the John McCain campaign. Earlier, he raised a similar sum similar for his first presidential choice — former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani.
At this week’s GOP gathering, Singer is putting on a notable and offbeat display of largesse. An unabashed conservative who has made his fortune by running Elliott Associates, a $7 billion hedge fund, Singer is underwriting both serious and lighter forums this week featuring a mix of Hollywood stars, media celebrities, and national and state political leaders.
Those in GOP money circles who know Singer, a big fundraiser for President Bush and conservative "527" political groups in 2004, describe him as a moneyman who likes to have an impact but prefers to avoid the limelight.
"He has the resources and a passion for politics," says Brad Blakeman, a former White House aide who is doing commentary this week on Fox News. "He’s doing serious stuff and tongue-in-cheek stuff."
