Michael Jordan to host fundraiser for President Obama’s re-election

Throughout his career, Michael Jordan has always maintained a safe distance from politics. Never known to speak on his party affiliations, Jordan once famously stated, “Republicans buy sneakers too,”  is now throwing his support behind a candidate.

Michael Jordan, will host a $20,000 per person fundraiser in New York for President Obama’s 2012 re-election campaign. Several other NBA stars (past and present) will be showing their support for the President Obama’s re-election that day as well; Carmelo Anthony, Rajon Rondo, John Wall and others will participate in a “shoot-around”.

Don’t have $20K to get you in the building? The Obama campaign plans to raffle off tickets for grass roots supporters to attend the event.

This is the first time I recall so many athletes, especially NBA players involved with a political campaign.

Several past and present players made sizable donations to Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign, according to the Center for Responsive Politics, including LeBron James, Grant Hill, Shane Battier and Magic Johnson.