President Donald Trump has commenced the first significant international trip of his second term on Tuesday, focusing on a region where his family business has seen substantial growth recently. This trip raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest that are more pronounced than ever, as the president's sons, who lead the Trump Organization, have been actively engaging in the Middle East to secure deals that could benefit the family business and, in some instances, Trump himself.
Critics, including government watchdogs and presidential historians, assert that Trump's actions represent an escalation of unethical and possibly unconstitutional conflicts between the interests of the United States and those of its president. Just a week prior to Trump's arrival in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, his son, Eric Trump, addressed a crowd in Dubai, promoting plans for an ambitious 80-floor hotel and residential tower. He claimed that this "incredible icon" would "redefine luxury," featuring the world's highest infinity-edge pool with views of the Burj Khalifa.
Trump's relationship with the Gulf states is indicative of his business instincts. Unlike his first term, where he pledged not to pursue personal business interests while in office, Trump has sidestepped congressional and judicial attempts to manage his potential conflicts. Both Donald Trump Jr. and Eric have participated in events in the region to advance various deals, including those related to cryptocurrency and luxury real estate, underscoring the family’s intention to pursue international business opportunities, even while Trump oversees U.S. foreign policy.
During his visit to Qatar, it has been revealed that the nation has previously compensated high-ranking officials, including the attorney general and the head of the FBI, to lobby on its behalf, as highlighted by a review of Foreign Agents Registration Act filings. Trump has shown little concern regarding these conflicts. For example, he praised a $400 million Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet gifted by Qatar, which would serve as Air Force One during his presidency. He referred to it as a "palace in the sky" and expressed gratitude for the gesture.
In a recent development, Eric Trump has finalized a deal to construct the $5.5 billion Trump International Golf Club in Simaisma, Qatar. This "ultra-luxury community" will feature an 18-hole golf course and luxury villas branded with the Trump name. The president's trip will conclude in Abu Dhabi, where the family's cryptocurrency venture is reportedly gaining traction, with an investment firm backed by Abu Dhabi intending to invest $2 billion into the project.
According to historian Douglas Brinkley from Rice University, Trump's willingness to engage in conflicts of interest that could personally benefit him threatens to surpass previous administrations. His family's actions appear to be supported by a Congress and media landscape that is overwhelmed by the fast-paced activities of the White House, with legal teams ensuring compliance to the letter of the law. Brinkley notes that while there is yet to be proven illegality, Trump's conduct is dismantling established norms regarding presidential ethics.
The president and vice president are exempt from conflict-of-interest laws but are bound by the Constitution, which prohibits accepting gifts from foreign governments without Congressional approval. The White House has denied accusations that Trump prioritizes his financial interests over the nation's, with press secretary Karoline Leavitt asserting that Trump complies with all conflict-of-interest regulations and acts in the best interests of the American public.
Trump's international business interests extend beyond the Middle East, with ventures in countries such as Serbia, Albania, and Vietnam. However, the growing ties in the Gulf region raise significant concerns due to its critical role in U.S. foreign policy. Experts indicate that Trump's first foreign trip may be overshadowed by regional security issues, including the situations in Gaza and Iran’s nuclear ambitions, yet business deals seem to take precedence during his visit.
As Trump faces scrutiny for perceived ethical lapses, particularly given his history of impeachment and legal challenges, public opinion remains divided. A recent poll revealed that a significant percentage of Americans associate Trump with the term "corrupt." While past presidents have faced similar scrutiny regarding their business dealings post-office, experts argue that the scale of the Trump family's investments combined with his presidential authority distinguishes this situation.
Ultimately, while Trump’s international trip aims to foster business relationships, the intertwining of his personal financial interests with his role as president raises critical questions about the ethical implications for U.S. foreign policy and governance.
