Full Story Trump in the White House: is it time to call it corruption?
Dec 19, 2025
Janine Wedel, a distinguished professor and expert on corruption at George Mason University, joins Jonathan Freedland to dissect controversial practices during Donald Trump's presidency. They delve into what constitutes corruption, exploring ancient definitions and how they connect to modern governance. Wedel highlights troubling financial ties with the UAE and Qatar, discusses the blurred lines between business and diplomacy through figures like Jared Kushner, and critiques the alarming trend of pardons favoring allies, painting a portrait of systemic corruption.
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Corruption As Violation Of Public Trust
- Corruption can be defined as the abuse of public office for private gain and a violation of public trust.
- Janine Wedel argues Trump's actions erode public trust in civic institutions worldwide.
The Qatari Gifted Airplane
- The Qatari royal family gifted a very large airplane that is now being refitted as Air Force One at taxpayer expense.
- Media and experts saw this gift as an egregious example that looks like private benefit tied to state decisions.
Reciprocity Without Legal Quid Pro Quo
- Direct quid pro quo is often legally hard to prove even when patterns suggest reciprocity.
- Janine Wedel says Trump's long-term personal business relationships with Middle Eastern actors create obligations to give and receive.