Republican Senator John Curtis of Utah has requested the Senate Judiciary Committee to investigate whether Donald Trump Jr. leveraged his relationship with the presidency for financial gain, following reports that a Russian oligarch partially funded his recent wedding party. In a letter sent on Tuesday, Curtis urged the committee to subpoena Trump Jr. regarding his business dealings, connections with foreign entities, and any gifts or benefits received that may have been influenced by his father, former President Donald Trump. Curtis also called for similar scrutiny of Hunter Biden, son of former President Joe Biden.
Curtis emphasized the need for equal standards in investigating the families of both Republican and Democratic presidents. His letter comes amid a shift among some Republicans who have begun to publicly criticize Trump, particularly in light of various political challenges, including the ongoing war in Iran and concerns about the GOP's performance in the upcoming midterm elections.
ProPublica reported that Umar Kremlev, linked to Russian President Vladimir Putin, contributed to expenses for Trump Jr.'s wedding celebrations in the Bahamas in May. Bettina Trump, Trump Jr.'s partner, referred to Kremlev as a "dear friend" who hosted the wedding festivities. While former President Trump defended Kremlev's involvement, he stated that the funds would be reimbursed.
Curtis, who took office in 2024, has previously expressed his willingness to disagree with Trump on various issues, including the Senate filibuster. He described the financial support from Kremlev as "corruption" and indicated he would provide further commentary in the future.
On social media, Curtis noted the extensive investigations into Hunter Biden's foreign relationships and suggested that similar efforts should continue regarding Trump Jr. Any congressional committee has the authority to initiate investigations at any time. In 2017, the Senate Judiciary Committee, led by Chuck Grassley, investigated the Trump campaign's connections to Russia, including a meeting Trump Jr. had with Russian individuals in 2016.
Clare Slattery, a spokesperson for the Senate Judiciary Committee, confirmed receipt of Curtis' letter but mentioned that scheduling a hearing before the year's end may be challenging due to the Senate's limited calendar. Senator Dick Durbin, the committee's top Democrat, acknowledged Curtis' request and expressed support for investigating Trump Jr. while noting that Hunter Biden had previously given a sworn deposition.
Grassley collaborated with House Republicans in 2023 and 2024 to examine whether Hunter Biden improperly utilized his father's political influence for personal gain. The Biden family has characterized these investigations as politically motivated and has denied any wrongdoing. A GOP report accused Joe Biden of conspiring to enrich his family through his public office, although the House did not pursue impeachment articles against him.
Curtis remarked that the standard of trust was insufficient in the past and remains inadequate now. Democrats have indicated intentions to investigate Trump and his family if they regain control of Congress, particularly focusing on their financial dealings. Representative Robert Garcia, the leading Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, stated that the circumstances surrounding Trump Jr.'s wedding could represent significant allegations against him.