Doug Burgum's Presidential Campaign Offers $20 Gift Cards for Just $1

North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum's presidential campaign is offering $20 gift cards to donors who contribute as little as $1, in an effort to reach the donor threshold required to qualify for the debate stage. The campaign aims to distribute gift cards to up to 50,000 donors, potentially costing $950,000. While this fundraising tactic reflects Burgum's willingness to dip into his personal wealth, it also raises legal questions about potential straw donor activity. Despite the concerns, Burgum's campaign frames it as a way to help people affected by the economy and secure a debate spot while avoiding advertising fees on social media platforms. Other lesser-known candidates are also getting creative with their fundraising strategies to meet the Republican National Committee's donor threshold.