A new report from House Democrats alleges that while Donald Trump was president, Secret Service agents were overcharged for rooms at his hotel in Washington. The report also claims that foreign and domestic officials, including those seeking positions in the Trump administration or pardons, paid for rooms at the Trump International Hotel, benefitting Trump. The investigation by Democrats on the House Oversight Committee aims to highlight Trump’s attempts to enrich himself, often at the expense of taxpayers.
The report covers spending at the Washington hotel over an 11-month period during Trump’s presidency, showing instances where prices for rooms for Secret Service were significantly higher than the approved government per diem rate. The report also details the stays of various officials, including U.S. ambassadors, federal judges, and individuals seeking appointments or pardons from Trump, at the hotel.
The report found that the Trump Corporation took in $300,000 in payments over the 11 months that may violate the emoluments clause of the Constitution, which prohibits the president from receiving compensation from foreign or domestic governments. While there is no clear penalty for violations of the clause, Democrats are calling for legislation to define penalties for officeholders who violate it.
The report is part of a broader investigation into financial benefits Trump received as president and highlights the need for stronger anti-corruption measures to prevent future presidents from exploiting their positions for personal gain.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com