Here’s what conservatives need to know.
As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office, new details are emerging about how he will manage his business empire, the Trump Organization, in order to avoid potential conflicts of interest during his presidency. According to a recent report from The Wall Street Journal, Trump will largely distance himself from the day-to-day operations of the organization once he assumes the presidency. This move is part of a comprehensive ethics plan aimed at ensuring transparency and addressing any concerns about improper influence or favoritism.
To ensure the Trump Organization remains above reproach, Trump has enlisted the help of William Burck from the law firm Quinn Emanuel. Burck will work closely with the company to establish internal ethics guidelines and procedures designed to safeguard against any perceived conflicts of interest. This effort reflects Trump’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of both his presidency and his business dealings.
The Trump Organization has also pledged to refrain from entering into new contracts with foreign governments during Trump’s time in office, further eliminating any potential for conflicts. In a move to address concerns about foreign influence, the company has also announced that any profits generated from foreign government officials staying at Trump hotels or using its services will be voluntarily donated to the U.S. Treasury. This is a significant step toward demonstrating accountability and ensuring that the president’s businesses do not benefit unfairly from foreign interactions.
In terms of his investments, Trump will place them in a blind trust, managed by independent institutions. This means he will have limited access to financial information related to the Trump Organization, reinforcing his commitment to keeping his presidential responsibilities separate from his private business interests.
As Trump prepares for his historic inauguration on January 20, 2017, his actions in the coming days will likely set the tone for how future presidents might navigate the complexities of managing private interests while serving in public office. His ethical plan serves as a blueprint for ensuring that his administration remains free of conflicts while advancing the interests of the American people.