Hudson Yards Builder Faces Backlash For Hamptons Trump Fundraiser

MIDTOWN MANHATTAN, NY — The billionaire real estate developer and businessman whose firm led the construction of Hudson Yards is facing backlash for a decision to host a fundraiser for President Donald Trump at his Hamptons home, according to reports.

Trump is jetting out to the Hamptons on Friday to personally attend a Southampton fundraiser at the home of Stephen Ross, who founded the development firm Related Companies in the 70s, the Washington Post first reported.

Trump supporters can contribute as much as $250,000 to the president's reelection in exchange for a meal, a photo with the president and participation in a round-table discussion attended by Trump. Those who are less enthusiastic about the president can opt for a more pedestrian $100,000 ticket and skip the discussion, the Washington Post reported.

Funds raised at Ross' home will be contributed to the Trump Victory committee, which has already raised $67 million for the president's reelection, the Post reported.

Ross, who helms a far-reaching business empire, is facing backlash for hosting the fundraiser. Model Chrissy Teigen and comedian Billy Eichner both took to social media to encourage Equinox and Soulcycle members — both owned by Ross — to cancel the gyms.

Kenny Stills, a wide receiver on the Ross-owned Miami Dolphins, took his employer to task over perceived hypocrisy regarding the Ross Initiative in Sports for Equality. The charity seeks to use sports to eliminate racial descrimination and "improve race relations," according to its website. Stills is an outspoken critic of the NFL's treatment of Colin Kaepernick, who has been kept out of the league since protesting police brutality during the national anthem.

"You can’t have a non profit with this mission statement then open your doors to Trump," Stills tweeted Wednesday.

An anonymous source described as close to Ross told the Sun Sentinel that the billionaire developer supports Trump's reelection but disagrees with Trump's "rhetoric around race."

In addition to his business holdings, Ross is also a board member or trustee of a number of influential New York City institutions such as Lincoln Center and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, according to Related's website.

Ross' Hudson Yards development, which opened earlier this year, has been described as a heavily-subsidized playground for the rich. The opening was attended by New York City power players such as City Council Speaker Corey Johson, Senator Chuck Schumer and Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance Jr. and celebrities such as Carmelon Anthony and Anderson Cooper, who helped MC the event.

Most of the stores at Hudson Yards are of the luxury variety, with a few moderately-priced options thrown in. Brands with spots in the Midtown development's giant mall include: Neiman Marcus, Brooks Brothers, H&M, Lululemon, Sephora, Rolex and Tiffany & Co.