Steve Bannon, an American media executive, political strategist, and former White House chief strategist, has a net worth of approximately $20 million as of 2024. Born on November 27, 1953, he is currently 70 years old. Known for his involvement in far-right media, his tenure with Donald Trump, and his role in multiple controversies, Bannon has led a career filled with both influence and legal troubles.
How Did Steve Bannon Build His Wealth?
Bannon accumulated his wealth through various ventures, including investment banking, media, and political consulting. His career began at Goldman Sachs, where he worked in mergers and acquisitions before forming his own investment firm, Bannon & Co. His financial acumen extended into the entertainment industry, where he secured a lucrative deal involving syndication profits from the TV show Seinfeld, which reportedly earned him around $33 million over the years.
In addition to his business ventures, Bannon held significant assets, including real estate properties worth up to $10.5 million and consulting firm Bannon Strategic Advisors Inc., which was valued between $5 million and $25 million, according to a 2017 financial disclosure.
What Were Steve Bannon’s Major Career Roles?
Investment Banking and Hollywood
After serving in the U.S. Navy for seven years, Bannon transitioned into finance, working at Goldman Sachs before co-founding Bannon & Co. His firm specialized in media and entertainment investments, eventually leading him to the film industry, where he produced several conservative documentaries and executive-produced films like Titus (1999).
Breitbart and Far-Right Media Influence
Bannon became a leading figure in right-wing media through his role as executive chairman of Breitbart News, a website known for its far-right, nationalist content. Under his leadership, Breitbart became a powerful platform, amplifying controversial and polarizing narratives.
White House and Political Career
In 2016, Bannon was appointed as chief executive of Donald Trump’s presidential campaign and later served as the chief strategist in the Trump administration. He was instrumental in shaping Trump’s nationalist policies, including the controversial travel ban targeting Muslim-majority countries. However, he left the White House in August 2017 due to internal conflicts.
Cambridge Analytica and Dark Money Tactics
Bannon served as vice president of the now-defunct Cambridge Analytica, a data analytics firm that harvested Facebook user data to influence elections. The firm played a controversial role in the 2016 U.S. presidential election and the Brexit campaign, leading to significant legal scrutiny.
What Legal Troubles Has Steve Bannon Faced?
Fraud Allegations and Arrest on a Luxury Yacht
In August 2020, Bannon was arrested on a 150-foot yacht owned by Chinese billionaire Guo Wengui. He was charged with conspiracy to commit mail fraud and money laundering related to the “We Build the Wall” campaign. Prosecutors alleged that Bannon and his associates diverted donor funds for personal use. While he pleaded not guilty, Trump pardoned him before his trial.
Contempt of Congress and January 6 Investigation
In 2021, Bannon defied a subpoena from the House Select Committee investigating the January 6 Capitol attack. He was later convicted of contempt of Congress and sentenced to four months in prison, though he remained free pending appeal.
How Did Bannon’s Influence Extend Beyond the U.S.?
European Far-Right Networks
After leaving the White House, Bannon sought to unite far-right movements in Europe. He established The Movement, an organization aimed at supporting nationalist parties across the continent. However, his efforts faced resistance, and the initiative failed to gain significant traction.
GTV Media and Chinese Connections
Bannon was involved in GTV Media Group, a controversial company that raised $300 million in a private offering. The company, linked to Guo Wengui, faced investigations for potential fraud, further entangling Bannon in legal and financial troubles.
What Are Steve Bannon’s Political and Social Views?
Bannon is a vocal advocate of nationalist and populist policies. He has:
- Opposed immigration and promoted strict border control measures.
- Denied climate change, calling it a hoax.
- Supported authoritarian movements and leaders globally.
- Used media platforms to push far-right and conspiracy-driven narratives.
His views have made him both a key strategist for conservative movements and a highly controversial figure in global politics.
What Is Steve Bannon’s Personal Life Like?
Bannon has been married and divorced three times. He has three daughters from his marriages. In 1996, he was charged with domestic violence against his then-wife, Mary Louise Piccard, though the case was later dropped when she failed to appear in court.
What’s Next for Steve Bannon?
Despite his legal issues and media bans, Bannon continues to influence right-wing politics. His podcast, War Room, remains a platform for controversial political discourse, and he continues to rally support for nationalist movements worldwide. With ongoing legal battles and shifting political landscapes, Bannon’s future remains uncertain but undoubtedly influential.
