About 190 Democratic legislators have instituted a suit against President Donald Trump over his alleged receipt of funds from foreign government, through his business, without the approval of Congress. The action by the President is a gross violation of the US Constitution, the lawmakers said.
Reuters reported that the lawmakers complained that President Trump did not seek congressional endorsement for the payments his businesses received from foreign governments and agencies since he assumed office in January. It is a requirement in the US Constitution for the President to seek Congressional approval for any transaction with a foreign government.
White House's reaction
The White House reacted by saying Trump did not violate the constitution in his business transactions. A statement by the Trump Organization said it will give out profits from customers that represent foreign governments and entities to the United States Treasury. The customers will not be required to identify themselves, the Organization stated.
About 166 representatives and at least 30 senators are plaintiffs in the suit instituted on Wednesday. This is the first time US lawmakers in such large number could file a lawsuit against a US President, two legislators who are plaintiffs in the suit said.
The foreign emolument clause of the US Constitution forbids US public office-holders from receiving payments and other gifts from government of foreign countries without approval by Congress.
Lawmakers explain the lawsuit
According to Sen. Richard Blumenthal, one of the legislators who instituted the lawsuit, said in an interview with Reuters Tuesday, that the President’s refusal to inform lawmakers about the emoluments and failure to disclose the benefits and payments he is receiving, is demeaning to lawmakers. He added that Congress cannot approve what it does not know.
President Donald Trump seems to be using his official position to maximize his profit. President Trump has conflicts of interest in at least 22 countries, Rep. John Conyers, a plaintiff to the suit added.
Multiple suits against Trump
In a similar vein, there are dozens of suits against the President in recent months by groups and parties, including the District of Columbia, a nonprofit ethics group, the state of Maryland, a restaurant trade group, etc.
In the suit lawmakers alleged that Trump’s acceptance of payments and emoluments of US and foreign governments through hospitality estates, places other owners of hotels and restaurants at a disadvantage. It also gives incentives to government that will give businesses owned by Trump preferential treatment.
