| Aspect | Details | Implications |
|---|---|---|
| Historical Comparisons | Previous administrations had corruption but less brazen/varied than current Trump era | Trump’s era marks a new high in political graft and foreign influence |
| Foreign Deals & Gifts | Qatar’s $400M jet; new Trump projects in Saudi Arabia, Oman, Vietnam; crypto deals with Pakistan | Foreign regimes capitalize on Trump’s presidency for economic and political favors |
| Domestic Legal Maneuvers | Settlements with media companies ($16M from Paramount; $15M from ABC) over weak claims | Legal threats used as financial leverage to enrich Trump family and fund future ambitions |
| Presidential Privilege | Supreme Court ruling grants immunity; loyal AG; dismantling watchdogs and regulations | Weakens checks on corruption; shields Trump and associates from prosecution |
| Global Political Effects | Countries compete to gain Trump’s favor through investments and bribes | Destabilizes international norms; promotes kleptocracy worldwide |
| Future Outlook | Corruption expected to intensify; foreign influence to deepen | Potential for worsening governance crises and compromised U.S. sovereignty |
(Casey Michel, Trump’s Corruption and Foreign Influence)