Public Citizen, a prominent consumer advocacy group, has formally requested that the transition team of President-elect Donald Trump release Boris Epshteyn, one of Trump’s close advisers.
Public Citizen sent a letter to President-elect Donald Trump’s transition co-chairs Howard Lutnick and Linda McMahon, asking that a report be made public containing the findings of an internal investigation into influential Trump adviser Boris Epshteyn.
The investigation follows accusations that Epshteyn allegedly solicited payments from individuals in exchange for advocating for their appointments within the incoming administration.
In a letter sent to transition co-chairs Howard Lutnick and Linda McMahon, Public Citizen co-presidents Lisa Gilbert and Robert Weissman emphasized the importance of transparency in the matter, arguing that the American public has a right to know the facts regarding the alleged financial demands.
“If Mr. Epshteyn’s influence was shaped by inappropriate financial considerations – either positively by anyone making payment or adversely by anyone refusing – the American people have a right to know,” the letter states.
According to media reports, the investigation found evidence that Epshteyn, a long-time ally of Trump, may have requested financial compensation from those seeking political appointments.
This follows a declaration from former Missouri Governor Eric Greitens, who alleged that Epshteyn suggested ‘a financial arrangement’ in exchange for support in his bid to become U.S. Navy Secretary.
Greitens stated that the situation created a sense of unease and pressure.
“If a pay-for-play operation has corrupted the political appointment process in the Trump transition, as seems to be the case, the full facts must be disclosed to the American people,” said Robert Weissman. “If one of Mr. Trump’s close advisors has been compromised by personal monetary considerations, then the personnel selection process itself has been compromised.”
Epshteyn, who played a key role during Trump’s 2016 campaign and subsequent administration, has denied the allegations, calling them “false and defamatory.”
He has also expressed confidence that they will not distract from the work of the incoming administration.
Trump transition team spokesperson Steven Cheung indicated that a broad review of consulting agreements has been completed and that the team is now moving forward.
The controversy surrounding Epshteyn adds to his already high-profile and controversial role within Trump’s inner circle.
Known for his legal and advisory positions, Epshteyn is currently facing separate charges related to his involvement in efforts to overturn the 2020 election results in Arizona.
Trump’s son, Eric, connected his father with Epshteyn after they were classmates at Georgetown University.
Epshteyn’s career with the Trump team started as a staffer during the president-elect’s run for office in the 2016 presidential election.
He earned a junior White House communications position running the White House’s television surrogate operations, when Trump first won office. He resigned unexpectedly two months later.
It is unclear why he left the White House, but Epshteyn has remained a loyal and close confidant of Trump.
Public Citizen’s call for transparency comes as the transition team navigates increasing scrutiny over the ethical implications of political appointments and the potential for improper financial influence in government processes.
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