Key Takeaways

• President Trump’s self-dealing drew sharp criticism from David French.
• French highlights a $400 million plane gift, a crypto pardon, and calls to prosecute rivals.
• GOP leaders like Speaker Mike Johnson defended Trump’s actions as “transparent.”
• Critics warn this bold behavior may reshape American politics.

Trump’s Self-Dealing Under the Microscope

Conservative New York Times columnist David French calls out President Trump’s self-dealing in his second term. French argues that Trump’s open deals and favors break long-standing rules. He points to three major examples that shine a light on how bold these moves really are.

What Is Self-Dealing?

Self-dealing happens when a leader uses their power for personal gain. Instead of serving the public, they serve themselves. French says Trump’s self-dealing comes in plain view, without any attempt to hide. In short, Trump puts his own interests first.

The Foreign Gift: A $400 Million Plane

First, French highlights a huge gift. A foreign government gave Trump a private jet worth $400 million. Normally, such gifts face strict rules. But Trump accepted it openly. He even welcomed praise from his supporters for this luxury. French says this favor raises big questions about independence and influence.

The Clemency for a Crypto Billionaire

Next, French points to a presidential pardon. Trump freed a cryptocurrency billionaire who had close business ties to Trump’s companies. Critics say this looks like trading favors. Instead of following justice rules, Trump used his power to help an ally. For French, that move shows how far self-dealing can go.

Calls to Prosecute Political Foes

Finally, French worries about Trump’s demand to prosecute his enemies. The president publicly asked for legal action against his critics. He even hinted that his political foes could face jail time. Normally, the Justice Department acts independently. But Trump’s comments blur that important line.

GOP Leaders Defend Self-Dealing

Speaker Mike Johnson and other GOP leaders rushed to defend Trump. Johnson said Trump’s open style proves he has nothing to hide. As Johnson put it, Trump’s “transparency” is a shield. French compares that to a bank robber insisting he is innocent because he smiled for the security cameras. He says it is a hollow excuse for self-dealing.

Why Critics Call It Brazen

French writes that one word describes this presidency: brazen. He explains that Trump seems unafraid of the rules. Instead, he flaunts his actions for all to see. French warns that brazen self-dealing might become the new normal.

Supporters Are Ready to Rationalize

French also makes a point about Trump’s core followers. He says they will rationalize anything he does. They often lack deep knowledge of law or ethics. So, when Trump crosses a line, they back him anyway. That widespread excuse-making lets self-dealing thrive.

A New Political Paradigm?

French argues that defending Trump’s bold moves shows a shift in politics. In past decades, presidents faced checks on personal gain. Now, defenders say: no cover-up, no crime. By this logic, open self-dealing becomes acceptable. French warns that this new paradigm erodes trust in government.

What This Means for America

Looking ahead, French fears lasting damage. When leaders use office for personal gain, citizens lose faith. Moreover, if political foes face prosecution for opposing the president, democracy itself suffers. French urges voters to watch these trends closely.

Key Lessons About Self-Dealing

• Power needs checks and balances.
• Open deals aren’t always honest deals.
• Defenders of bold acts may ignore real harm.
• Citizens must stay informed to protect democracy.

FAQs

What exactly is self-dealing?

Self-dealing is when someone in power puts personal gain over public duty. They use their position to benefit themselves rather than the people they serve.

Why does French call Trump’s actions brazen?

French says Trump’s self-dealing is brazen because he shows no shame. He flaunts big favors, gift acceptance, and pardons without hiding.

How did Speaker Mike Johnson defend Trump?

Johnson claimed Trump’s openness means he has nothing to hide. He described Trump’s self-dealing as “transparent,” saying public view proves honesty.

What might change if self-dealing becomes the norm?

If self-dealing goes unchecked, trust in government could collapse. Citizens may see leaders as purely self-serving, weakening democracy.