Trump transition/ Boris Epshteyn allegations/ pay-to-play investigation/ Trump Cabinet ethics/ internal Trump team review/ WASHINGTON/ Newslooks/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Donald Trump’s transition team has investigated senior adviser Boris Epshteyn over allegations of pay-to-play practices. A review by transition lawyer David Warrington recommended limiting Epshteyn’s access to the president-elect after accusations surfaced that he sought payments from individuals vying for administration roles, including Treasury Secretary nominee Scott Bessent. While Epshteyn denies the claims, the controversy underscores internal challenges in Trump’s team as he prepares for a second term.
Allegations of Pay-to-Play: Boris Epshteyn Faces Trump Transition Team Scrutiny
Quick Looks
- Internal Investigation: Trump transition lawyer David Warrington led the review.
- Accusations: Allegations include soliciting payments for access and advocacy.
- Notable Figures: Treasury Secretary nominee Scott Bessent and Eric Greitens reported issues.
- Trump’s Stance: President-elect reiterates zero tolerance for personal profiteering.
Trump Team Investigates Adviser Over Alleged Pay-to-Play Scheme
Deep Look
As President-elect Donald Trump’s transition team works to assemble his new administration, internal tensions have surfaced following an investigation into Boris Epshteyn, a longtime Trump adviser. The review, led by transition lawyer David Warrington, examined allegations that Epshteyn sought payments in exchange for advocating on behalf of individuals seeking roles in the administration.
Accusations Against Epshteyn
- Scott Bessent: A hedge fund executive and Trump’s pick for Treasury Secretary, Bessent reportedly faced opposition from Epshteyn after refusing to pay a substantial retainer.
- Eric Greitens: The former governor, who resigned amid scandal but expressed interest in a Trump administration role, claimed Epshteyn created a sense of “unease” during a conversation on Nov. 7, suggesting an expectation of business dealings before advocacy.
Epshteyn’s actions are not alleged to be illegal, as lobbying and securing fees for access are common in Washington’s political landscape. However, the optics of the situation, coupled with Trump’s personal distaste for those who exploit proximity to him for personal gain, have cast a shadow over Epshteyn’s role.
Trump Transition Response
In response to the review, the transition team has reportedly curtailed Epshteyn’s access to the president-elect. Trump’s communications director, Steven Cheung, issued a statement framing the investigation as part of a standard review of consulting agreements, though political veterans note that such a review is far from typical.
“We are now moving ahead together as a team to help President Trump Make America Great Again,” Cheung said, sidestepping questions about Epshteyn’s future role in the administration.
“I am honored to work for President Trump and with his team,” Epshteyn said. “These fake claims are false and defamatory and will not distract us from Making America Great Again.”
Eric Trump Weighs In
Eric Trump, the president-elect’s son and a college friend of Epshteyn, acknowledged the seriousness of the accusations in a Fox News interview.
“If somebody was doing that, believe me, there will be repercussions,” Eric Trump said, though he noted he has only known Epshteyn to be a “good human being.”
Historical Context
Epshteyn has been a polarizing figure in Trump’s orbit. After a brief stint in Trump’s first White House, he became a central player in Trump’s post-presidency legal strategies, helping to navigate mounting civil and criminal cases.
Epshteyn himself faces legal challenges, having been indicted in Arizona for allegedly participating in efforts to subvert the 2020 election results. He has pleaded not guilty to those charges and was not expected to hold an official position in the incoming administration.
Trump’s Stance on Profiteering
“No one working for me in any capacity should be looking to make money. They should only be here to Make America Great Again,” Trump said.
The allegations echo concerns raised during the 2022 midterms when some in Trump’s circle reportedly represented candidates seeking his endorsement, prompting criticism over potential profiteering.
Looking Ahead
While Epshteyn’s fate within the Trump team remains uncertain, the investigation highlights the challenges of managing the often-chaotic inner circle that characterized Trump’s first term. With Trump’s second administration taking shape, questions linger about whether his team can balance loyalty with transparency and ethical governance.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.