Trump enjoys ‘presidential exemption’ to the conflict-of-interest regulation his aides should observe

Every single official within the govt department is required, underneath penalty of potential jail, to keep away from monetary conflicts of curiosity. But two persons are exempt: President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. This decades-old “presidential exemption” to the federal prison conflicts-of-interest regulation has created a weird dynamic the place Trump overtly flouts ethics norms whereas his Cabinet members, prime White House advisers and appointees all through the federal authorities leap by means of hoops to deconflict – both by means of divestments or recusals.

Seven months into Trump’s tenure, he has openly blended his enterprise pursuits with the presidency by having his administration settle for a $400 million luxurious jet from Qatar, eating with rich buyers for in his cryptocurrency coin, promoting a Trump-branded smartphone, selling his Scotland golf properties, and extra.

CNN senior reporter Marshall Cohen experiences from Washington. #CNN #News