Bon Jovi raises $3M at Democratic benefit

TRENTON, N.J., Sept. 7 (UPI) -- Rocker Jon Bon Jovi showed he is a stalwart supporter of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama by raising $3 million for him at a New Jersey benefit.

The New York Post said Sunday that the "Destination Anywhere" singer held a private fundraiser at his own home in Middletown, N.J., in order to raise funds for the Illinois senator's presidential run.

With nearly 100 people paying more than $30,000 to attend the exclusive event, Obama made an appearance to offer some inspiration words to his assembled supporters.

"We're not going to be bullied, we're not going to be smeared," the presidential hopeful said at Friday's event.

Bon Jovi is the second notable musical name involved in the electoral race during recent days as the band Heart blasted Republican presidential candidate John McCain regarding his campaign's use of the band's hit song "Barracuda."

The Post said the popular Heart song was used, allegedly without permission, by campaign officials during this week's Republican National Convention to help introduce Alaskan Gov. Sarah Palin, McCain's vice-presidential running mate.