VIDEO Kleptocracy?: How Ivanka Trump & Jared Kushner Personally Profit from Their Roles in the White House

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Kleptocracy?: How Ivanka Trump & Jared Kushner Personally Profit from Their Roles in the White House In this enlightening episode from Democracy Now, Amy Goodman delves into the ethical challenges posed by Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner's intertwined business interests and roles within the White House. The video raises critical questions about potential conflicts of interest amid reports that Ivanka secured exclusive trademarks in China on the same day she dined with President Xi Jinping, hinting at a troubling form of kleptocracy emerging from within the U.S. administration.

Key Points from the Discussion​

1. Trademark Acquisitions: Ivanka Trump was noted to have obtained three exclusive trademarks in China for her jewelry and spa services, coinciding with a high-profile meeting, which suggests her business interests are being directly bolstered by her official position.
2. Trust Management: While Ivanka has stated that she placed her business in a trust to avoid conflicts, the trustees are family members, which poses significant questions about the independence of this arrangement.
3. Sales Surge: Following President Trump's election, sales of Ivanka's merchandise reportedly surged, reflecting a direct correlation between her political visibility and business profitability.
4. Broad Implications: The discussion goes beyond individual gain, highlighting the broader implications of a White House operating as a private enterprise, raising alarms about the lapse of oversight and legal norms.
5. Public Perception: The conversation touches on public skepticism regarding the effectiveness of the claimed distance Ivanka maintains from her business, particularly given that her family trusts play a pivotal role in management decisions.
6. Corruption and Commercialization: Vicky Ward, an investigative journalist, emphasizes the unprecedented nature of this governance style that blurs the lines between state duties and private profit, urging for scrutiny and accountability.

   Conclusion​

   This video serves as a timely reminder of the challenges posed by conflicts of interest in politics and the critical need for transparent governance. As these issues continue to unfold, understanding the intricacies of how power influences personal gain remains crucial for the public discourse.​

   What are your thoughts on the implications of such business practices within the government? Do you believe there should be stricter regulations governing such situations? Share your views and let's discuss!