Democrats in Congress have introduced legislation aimed at preventing U.S. officials from accepting money, payments, or gifts from foreign governments without congressional consent. This move comes in response to a yearslong probe into former President Donald Trump’s overseas business dealings.
The proposal, led by Rep. Jamie Raskin and Sen. Richard Blumenthal, seeks to enforce the Constitution’s ban on emoluments, which prohibits the president from accepting foreign gifts and money without Congress’ permission. Democrats argue that Trump blatantly disregarded this clause during his presidency, as foreign government officials frequented his hotels and properties.
While the legislation is unlikely to advance in the Republican-controlled Congress, Democrats believe it is necessary following a detailed investigation that revealed Trump’s businesses received nearly $8 million from 20 foreign governments during his time in office. The report outlined how countries like China, Saudi Arabia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo funneled money into various Trump properties.
Critics of Trump’s business practices have condemned his decision to maintain his vast business empire while in office, citing concerns about potential conflicts of interest and undue influence on U.S. policy. In response, Trump and his legal team have argued that the emoluments clauses were not intended to cover standard business transactions.
If passed, the legislation would prohibit federal officeholders from accepting foreign payments while in office and for two years after leaving office without congressional approval. It would also require officials to disclose any foreign payments on their annual ethics forms to ensure transparency and oversight.