Democrats Urge DOJ Investigation into Jared Kushner’s Saudi Dealings Amid FARA Concerns

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Democratic lawmakers are pushing for a special counsel investigation into Jared Kushner’s Saudi dealings, raising concerns about potential violations of the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) and national security implications.

At a Glance

  • Democrats request DOJ probe into Kushner’s $2 billion Saudi investment
  • Kushner’s firm collected $87 million in fees from Saudi sources
  • Concerns raised over potential FARA violations and foreign influence
  • Lawmakers demand equal scrutiny of all foreign business dealings
  • Parallels drawn to ongoing investigations into Hunter Biden’s foreign ties

Democrats Call for Investigation into Kushner’s Saudi Ties

Senior congressional Democrats have formally requested that the Department of Justice (DOJ) launch an investigation into Jared Kushner, former President Donald Trump’s son-in-law and senior advisor, over his business dealings with Saudi Arabia. The request, spearheaded by House Oversight Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin and Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden, centers on potential violations of the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) and raises questions about national security implications.

The lawmakers’ concerns stem from reports that Kushner’s firm, Affinity Partners, received substantial foreign investments following Trump’s presidency. According to the Democrats’ findings, Affinity Partners raised over $3 billion in capital, with $2 billion coming from the Saudi Public Investment Fund. This influx of foreign capital has prompted scrutiny over potential conflicts of interest and the need for FARA registration.

Financial Red Flags and Management Fees

One of the key issues raised by the Democratic lawmakers is the substantial management fees collected by Kushner’s firm from Saudi sources. Senate Democrats report that Affinity Partners received at least $87 million in management fees from the Saudi government. This financial arrangement has raised eyebrows, particularly given Kushner’s limited experience in private equity prior to establishing the firm.

“For years I’ve been investigating Jared Kushner’s business deals with foreign governments,” Wyden said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. “He’s masquerading as an investment manager but the evidence I’ve seen makes him look like an unregistered foreign agent.”

Critics suggest that the Saudi investment in Affinity Partners may be a means to funnel money to Kushner and Ivanka Trump, despite Kushner’s lack of extensive private equity experience. The Democrats argue that this arrangement could potentially serve as a covert channel for Saudi influence on the Trump family.

Potential FARA Violations and National Security Concerns

The heart of the Democrats’ request for an investigation lies in potential violations of the Foreign Agents Registration Act. They allege that Kushner engaged in political activities that would require FARA registration, such as advising Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin-Salman and meeting with U.S. officials. These actions, if proven, could constitute acting as an unregistered foreign agent.

“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. When re-elected, he’ll do the same,” Kushner said in a statement to Forbes. “Senator Wyden and Rep. Raskin are fortunate to be serving this country, and they should focus on the opportunity they have to positively impact people’s lives and not on silly political stunts. This letter is beneath the level of seriousness that both of their chambers deserve.”

The lawmakers emphasize the importance of enforcing FARA to protect national security and prevent foreign influence in U.S. politics. They argue that Kushner’s close ties to Saudi Arabia, coupled with his previous role in shaping U.S. foreign policy, warrant a thorough investigation to ensure transparency and accountability in international business dealings.

Parallels to Hunter Biden Investigation

The call for an investigation into Kushner’s foreign dealings comes against the backdrop of ongoing scrutiny into Hunter Biden’s international business activities. House Republicans have been leading an impeachment probe that has uncovered millions in undisclosed foreign payments to Hunter Biden and James Biden during Joe Biden’s vice presidency.

Democrats argue that the same standards of scrutiny should apply to Kushner’s dealings with Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern governments. They contend that enforcing FARA regulations and investigating potential foreign influence should be consistent across political lines to maintain the integrity of U.S. foreign policy and national security interests.

As pressure mounts for the Justice Department to address these concerns, the spotlight on Washington’s handling of foreign influence cases intensifies. The outcome of this request for investigation could have far-reaching implications for how the U.S. government addresses transparency in international business dealings and enforces laws designed to safeguard against undue foreign influence in American politics.

Sources:

  1. Democratic Lawmakers Request Special Counsel Investigation Into Whether Jared Kushner Acted As Unregistered Foreign Agent
  2. Exclusive: Democratic lawmakers request probe into Kushner after Reuters Saudi report
  3. Democrats ignored Hunter Biden’s foreign lobbying, but now want probe of Trump son-in-law

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