Headshots of both Donald Trump and Pam Bondi, stitched together in a collageDonald Trump and Pam Bondi, key figures in the Trump Foundation scandal.
The Trump Foundation-Pam Bondi scandal remains a significant controversy in American politics. It involves allegations of corruption and an illegal campaign contribution made by the Trump Foundation to Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi in 2013. This contribution coincided with Bondi’s office considering whether to investigate fraud allegations against Trump University. This timeline details the key events and legal actions surrounding this complex scandal.
The Unfolding of the Trump Foundation Scandal
The timeline of the Trump Foundation-Pam Bondi scandal reveals a complex web of events that raise serious questions about potential corruption and abuse of power. The story begins with complaints filed against Trump University and culminates in multiple investigations and legal actions.
Early Complaints and the New York Lawsuit
The initial phase of the scandal involved numerous complaints lodged against Trump University between 2008 and 2011. These complaints, filed with the Florida Office of the Attorney General (OAG), alleged fraudulent practices by the institution. In August 2013, New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman filed a lawsuit against Donald Trump, Trump University, and its former president, citing “persistent fraudulent, illegal and deceptive conduct.”
The Illegal Contribution and Bondi’s Inaction
In a pivotal moment in September 2013, the Trump Foundation made a $25,000 contribution to And Justice for All, a political organization supporting Pam Bondi’s reelection campaign. This donation was illegal for a charitable foundation under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, which prohibits political contributions. Furthermore, the contribution came at a time when Bondi’s office was reviewing the allegations against Trump University and considering joining the New York lawsuit. Despite public statements claiming otherwise, Bondi’s office ultimately decided not to pursue legal action against Trump University.
The legal ramifications of the Trump Foundation scandal were extensive.
CREW’s Investigation and Legal Actions
The Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) played a crucial role in uncovering and exposing the details of the scandal. In March 2016, CREW filed a complaint against the Trump Foundation for the illegal donation to Bondi’s political group. This sparked a series of investigations and further legal actions. CREW subsequently filed complaints against Bondi with the Florida Inspector General and the state’s Commission on Ethics for failing to investigate Trump University. They also filed multiple IRS complaints against the Trump Foundation for various violations, including acting as a prop for the Trump campaign and engaging in self-dealing.
The Fallout and Lasting Impact
The Trump Foundation-Pam Bondi scandal led to widespread condemnation and raised serious ethical questions about the influence of money in politics. The scandal contributed to the growing scrutiny of the Trump Foundation’s activities, ultimately leading to its dissolution in 2018. The controversy surrounding the illegal campaign contribution and Bondi’s decision not to investigate Trump University continues to be debated and analyzed, serving as a reminder of the potential for corruption and conflicts of interest in the political arena.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Trump Foundation Scandal
What was the Trump Foundation?
The Donald J. Trump Foundation was a private foundation established by Donald Trump in 1987. Initially focused on charitable giving, it became embroiled in controversy due to allegations of misuse of funds and illegal political activity.
Why was the $25,000 donation to Pam Bondi illegal?
The donation was illegal because charitable foundations, like the Trump Foundation, are prohibited from making political contributions under U.S. tax law.
What was Trump University?
Trump University was a for-profit real estate education company founded by Donald Trump. It faced numerous lawsuits and allegations of fraud, ultimately leading to its closure and a settlement with former students.
What role did CREW play in the scandal?
CREW played a critical role in investigating and exposing the scandal. They filed multiple complaints with various government agencies, leading to further investigations and legal actions. Their work brought the scandal to public attention and contributed to holding those involved accountable.
What was the outcome of the scandal? The Trump Foundation was dissolved in 2018 as part of a settlement with the New York Attorney General. While Bondi was not charged with any wrongdoing, the scandal tarnished her reputation and raised questions about her ethical conduct. The scandal remains a prominent example of potential corruption and the influence of money in politics.
