In a unique campaign strategy, Republican presidential candidate and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum is offering $20 gift cards to individuals who donate just $1 to his campaign. This initiative aims to boost his donor count, enabling him to participate in the upcoming Republican debate in August. Burgum needs to reach a threshold of unique donors to qualify for the debate stage, and this incentive is designed to help him achieve that goal.

Through a WinRed website, Burgum's campaign is distributing 50,000 gift cards, totaling $1 million. The website highlights the financial strain on American families under the Biden administration, positioning the gift cards as a form of relief until Burgum can implement his economic policies if elected.

Campaign spokesperson Lance Trover emphasized the dual purpose of the strategy: providing financial assistance to individuals affected by inflation and circumventing advertising costs on social media platforms perceived as unfavorable to conservatives. This approach allows the campaign to directly reach potential donors while minimizing expenditures on advertising.

Other longshot candidates are employing different tactics to reach the debate stage. Perry Johnson is offering t-shirts for $1 donations, while Asa Hutchinson is encouraging donations through a button on his website. The first GOP presidential primary debate, hosted by Fox News, is scheduled for August 23, 2023, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.