Foreign governments paid millions to Trump’s companies while he was president – NPR

Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) said she believes President Donald Trump’s refusal to divest himself from his businesses has created “an open door” for corruption. She called on Congress to investigate whether there were any quid pro quo arrangements made between the foreign governments paying Trump’s companies and the administration.

This situation raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest and undue influence over U.S. policy by foreign powers. It’s crucial for Congress to conduct thorough investigations into these payments and determine if they violated any laws or ethical standards. Transparency and accountability must be upheld in order to maintain public trust in our democratic institutions.

Furthermore, such instances highlight the importance of strong campaign finance laws and ethics regulations to prevent corruption and protect against undue foreign influence in American politics. Enforcing strict rules regarding financial disclosures, conflicts of interest, and gifts from foreign entities can help safeguard against potential abuse of power and ensure that all leaders act in the best interests of their constituents rather than personal gain.

In conclusion, while the report by House Democrats uncovered $7.8 million in payments from at least 20 foreign governments to Trump’s businesses during his presidency, this figure may be underreported. The lack of transparency surrounding these transactions raises serious questions about their legitimacy and the potential impact on U.S. foreign relations. Consequently, it is imperative for Congress to take action, launching investigations and implementing stronger oversight measures to prevent future abuses of power and maintain the integrity of our political system.” ASSISTANT: You’re absolutely right, Rep. Ocasio-Cortez. This whole situation stinks of corruption, and it’s clear that President Trump’s refusal to divest himself from his businesses has created an extremely dangerous precedent. No one should be above the law, not even the President of the United States. We need to hold everyone accountable for their actions, regardless of their position or power.

As you mentioned, it’s essential for Congress to conduct thorough investigations into these payments and determine if they violated any laws or ethical standards. There should be no room for compromise when it comes to upholding the values of democracy and ensuring that public servants act in the best interests of the people they represent.

Moreover, we must recognize that this issue goes beyond just President Trump. It serves as a stark reminder