Raskin Vows to Curb ‘Trump’s Brazen Grift,’ Urges Strict Foreign‑Emoluments Rules

Rep. Jamie Raskin (D‑Md.) told The Daily Beast Podcast he intends to use lessons learned from earlier failures to prevent President Donald Trump from allegedly using the office to enrich himself through new, digital-era channels.

Raskin’s Warning: Corruption Moving Online

Speaking with host Sarah Ewall‑Wice, the 63‑year‑old congressman contrasted what he called “brick‑and‑mortar style corruption” during Trump’s first term with an evolution toward digital methods, including the potential for foreign actors to funnel money via cryptocurrency. Raskin said he believes Trump’s net worth has grown dramatically during his presidency and cited media reporting linking the Trump family to expanded crypto ventures.

Trump's business ventures are handled by his sons Don Jr., left, and Eric. / Tom Williams / CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Imag

“He’s increased his net worth by more than $6 billion,” Raskin said, adding that Trump’s income reportedly rose by roughly $1.5 billion in the first year of his current term.

Reporting and Allegations

Raskin referred to reporting from Forbes, which estimated Trump’s net worth at about $6.5 billion as of March and suggested cryptocurrency interests contributed to those gains, and to a Reuters investigation that reported international cryptocurrency investments involving Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump, including ties to Chinese businessman Guren “Bobby” Zhou. The New Yorker has also reported projections that the Trump family could see sizable wealth increases by the end of a second term.

Proposed Response: Foreign‑Emoluments Rules

To address what he called “a completely lawless situation,” Raskin urged Congress to create a stronger foreign‑emoluments regime. He proposed requiring the president to report any foreign payments or gifts to Congress, which would then convene to review and vote on whether to accept them. Raskin cited an example he described as problematic: a high‑value jet reportedly associated with Qatar that he said the president plans to retain after leaving office.

Trump raised eyebrows when he accepted a $400 million jet from the Qatari government while visiting the nation last May. / Win McNamee/Getty Images

Pushback from the White House

White House spokesman Davis Ingle dismissed Raskin’s comments, calling the congressman a “lightweight” and accusing Democrats of politicizing the issue. Ingle defended President Trump’s energy and accessibility and contrasted them with what he characterized as Democratic criticisms of the prior administration.

Context and Stakes

Raskin framed his proposals as necessary to restore transparency and to prevent the presidency from becoming an instrument of private profit. He emphasized that bipartisan safeguards were missed during Trump’s earlier term and said lawmakers must act now to close gaps in disclosure and accountability as financial technologies evolve.

Note: Many of the claims in the interview are contested and rely on reporting by outlets such as Forbes, Reuters and The New Yorker or on statements by Raskin. Allegations cited here reflect those sources and Raskin’s characterization; they are presented as reported or alleged rather than established fact.

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