Top Democrats in Congress are urging the Justice Department to probe Jared Kushner, former President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, over potential lobbying violations for a foreign nation.
Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Representative Jamie Raskin (D-MD) sent a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland, requesting a special counsel to look into Kushner’s connections with Saudi Arabia.
Kushner, a former advisor to Trump, is portrayed as a “Shadow Diplomat” to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, allegedly receiving $87 million for his investment firm, Affinity Partners.
The lawmakers are concerned Kushner didn’t disclose activities under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), a law mandating Americans influencing U.S. policy for foreign governments to report their actions.
“The scale of these undisclosed foreign payments to Mr. Kushner coupled with the national security implications of his apparent ongoing efforts to sell political influence to the highest foreign bidder are unprecedented and demand action from DOJ,” the letter states.
They want an investigation into Kushner’s influence on U.S. policies without required disclosures.
Despite claiming he wouldn’t join a second Trump administration, Kushner told The Wall Street Journal he continues advising Trump informally and communicates with lawmakers seeking his insights.
Wyden and Raskin pointed to reports of Kushner’s discussions with the Saudi crown prince and others, suggesting influence on U.S.-Saudi relations, and ties to a New York meeting between the Qatari prime minister and Jewish leaders.
Concerns were also raised about Affinity Partners, owned by Kushner, receiving $3 billion mostly from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and other foreign entities.
The lawmakers argue Kushner’s involvement in Trump’s activities and foreign policy work should compel immediate FARA compliance.
“Enforcing FARA is essential to protecting our national security and ensuring that our political system remains free from malign foreign influence,” they stated.
They believe appointing a Special Counsel would ensure thorough and impartial investigation.
Kushner snapped back at the lawmakers for attempting a “political stunt” ahead of the election.
“There is no conflict of interest. During Trump’s four years in office, every decision he made was through the lens of what’s in the best interest of America,” he reportedly remarked. “When re-elected, he’ll do the same.”
“Senator Wyden and Rep. Raskin are fortunate to be serving this country and they should focus on the opportunity they have to positively impact peoples lives and not on silly political stunts” Kushner added. “This letter is beneath the level of seriousness that both of their chambers deserve.”
About Post Author
