How is this not straight up bribing?

Paywall so I can't read it but "...bought a night with Trump" sounds ickier than it even was (I assume).

I should also point out that many$ plate dinners where the President (or Presidential candidate) speaks, are pretty normal. Not saying it _should_ be normal, just that it didn't start with Trump.

Those are properly recorded as to who paid, correct?

name one "pretty normal" where proceeds went straight to the president pockets.

not even on campaign that happens.