Trump distances himself from top political aides over lobbying work
President Donald Trump insisted there will be no conflicts of interest created by political advisers Chris LaCivita and James Blair after reports that they worked for a pro-Russian government in the Balkans before Russia’s election.
TL;DR
- President Trump stated that political advisers Chris LaCivita and James Blair are outside consultants.
- Trump will fire LaCivita and Blair immediately if their work constitutes a conflict of interest.
- Reports indicate LaCivita and Blair were paid hundreds of thousands to advise on voting issues for Republika Srpska's government.
- Both LaCivita and Blair continue to assist Trump's campaign and political efforts.
- Steve Bannon criticized LaCivita and Blair as 'grifters' who are at odds with Trump's 'drain the swamp' promise.
- A Trump White House ally dismissed the scrutiny, emphasizing Blair's dedication to midterm election strategy.