NEW YORK — Presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton used a special performance of the hit Broadway musical "Hamilton" on Tuesday to urge supporters to view the upcoming election through a historical lens.
The former secretary of state shared that she had now seen the production about the life of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton three times — saying she had cried each time — and then turned her attention to modern-day politics.
“We cannot be detoured by those who play to the worst of our feelings, who would divide us, who would scapegoat us," Clinton said, referencing presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump.
“As you can tell, our founders were not perfect people, but they were united in their conviction that they could build this new country from nothing,” Clinton continued. "We are still going strong. … Let’s not throw away our shot.”
Clinton was introduced by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the show’s creator and, until recently, its star. Miranda, who gave his farewell performance in the lead role Saturday night, said he was now “a proud member of the alumni association of Hamilton.”
He made no secret of where his allegiances lie in the November election, saying, “the difference could not be more stark,” and introducing Clinton as “the 45th president of the United States.”
The fundraiser here followed an appearance in New Hampshire with Sen. Bernie Sanders (D-Vt.), who offered Clinton his endorsement after a bruising primary season.
The fundraiser was hosted by the Hillary Victory Fund, a joint venture of Clinton's campaign, the Democratic National Committee and state parties. Tickets ranged from $2,700 apiece to $100,000, which entitled a donor to two premium seats, a spot at the "wrap party" with Clinton and other guests and an invitation to the Democratic convention later this month.