US Senator John Curtis, a Republican from Utah, has called for a congressional investigation into the foreign business dealings of Donald Trump Jr., the eldest son of former President Donald Trump. In a letter sent on Tuesday to the leaders of the US Senate Judiciary Committee, Curtis raised concerns regarding Trump Jr.'s relationships with foreign business figures and the acceptance of significant gifts, suggesting that he may have benefited personally from these connections.
Curtis referenced a ProPublica report indicating that Trump Jr.'s wedding in the Bahamas was funded by a Russian oligarch. He stated, "These reports raise legitimate questions about foreign access to members of a sitting president’s family and whether such relationships can create actual or perceived expectations of favorable treatment." He also expressed concerns that these relationships could pose national security vulnerabilities.
This letter marks a rare instance of a Republican senator calling for accountability regarding Trump and his family, especially as some Republicans reconsider their support amid low approval ratings for the party, influenced by the war in Iran and economic concerns. Curtis's call for an investigation comes as Democrats are expected to pursue inquiries into Trump if they gain control of one or both chambers of Congress in the upcoming midterm elections.
A spokesperson for the Senate Judiciary Committee confirmed receipt of Curtis's letter but did not comment on the possibility of an investigation. Additionally, Curtis suggested that the committee should subpoena Trump Jr. and Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, emphasizing the need for equal standards for both parties' families.
Hunter Biden responded to Curtis's letter, inviting the Senate committee to investigate and expressing his willingness to testify alongside Trump Jr. He denied any wrongdoing regarding foreign business dealings during his father's presidency.
In response to the ProPublica report, Trump Jr. and his wife stated that the Russian oligarch, Umar Kremlev, was a close friend who hosted their wedding celebrations, and that Trump Jr. reimbursed him for the expenses. Former President Trump defended his son, stating that such arrangements are permissible.
Senator Dick Durbin, the ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, supported Curtis's request, noting that Trump Jr. has not yet provided testimony, unlike Hunter Biden, who has already given a sworn deposition to Congress. Durbin warned that ignoring the matter could be seen as complicity in a coverup.