Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), ranking member of the House Oversight Committee, appeared on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” to discuss a recent report by Democrats. The report reveals that former President Donald Trump’s businesses received at least $7.8 million from foreign entities in 20 countries while he was in the White House. The findings raise concerns about potential violations of the constitutional prohibition on accepting funds from foreign governments.
The report, conducted by the Oversight Committee Democrats, highlights that a majority of the payments, approximately $5.6 million, came from China and were directed towards Trump’s hotels in Washington and Las Vegas, as well as Trump Tower in New York. However, Raskin cautioned that the total amount is likely higher, as the report only covers two out of Trump’s four years in office, examines a limited number of businesses, and focuses on a select number of countries.
Raskin emphasized that the report indicates foreign governments and agents made direct payments to Trump-owned businesses during his presidency. He expressed concern that this could be just a fraction of the total amount received by Trump, stating that the founders of the country would be scandalized by such actions.
Raskin criticized his Republican colleagues for launching an impeachment inquiry into President Biden’s family business dealings while seemingly ignoring the documented receipts of foreign payments during the Trump administration. He pointed out historical instances where presidents turned down gifts or funds from other countries.
Calling on Trump to return the $7.8 million, Raskin highlighted how the report suggests that the money from foreign governments “definitely influenced” Trump’s actions concerning China and Saudi Arabia. He concluded by stating that Trump’s acceptance of millions of dollars from corrupt regimes is concerning, especially considering their specific interests.
Please note that this article is not considered breaking news and does not involve any true crime or police chase.