In a recent MSNBC appearance, Ben Rhodes, a former Obama Deputy National Security Advisor, has made pointed accusations against Jared Kushner, alleging a profound level of corruption linked to foreign investments in Kushner’s firm. Rhodes accused Kushner of involvement in corruption when questioned about The New York Times’ recent report revealing that 99 percent of his investment fund’s funding originated from foreign entities.
During his appearance on “Alex Wagner Tonight” on MSNBC, Rhodes emphasized that the actions of Jared Kushner constitute blatant corruption. Rhodes criticized Kushner’s lack of qualifications for his White House role and highlighted his focus on Gulf Arab states, suggesting complicity in covering up for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, particularly in the aftermath of Jamal Khashoggi’s murder.
Rhodes asserted that Jared Kushner’s acquisition of a $2 billion investment from Saudi Arabia, just six months after departing from the White House, serves as a means for Mohammed bin Salman to wield influence over U.S. foreign policy in the event of Trump’s return to the Oval Office following the November election. Rhodes suggested that this investment implies a scenario where American foreign policy decisions, both in the Middle East and globally, would be entirely aligned with the interests of Mohammed bin Salman during a potential second term for Trump.
During his tenure in the Trump administration, Kushner was responsible for overseeing Middle East policy. The scrutiny intensified following a 2022 report by The New York Times, which revealed that the Saudi sovereign’s advisory panel initially opposed providing funds to Kushner’s firm due to his perceived “inexperience.” However, a larger board led by Salman reversed this decision.
Rhodes highlighted Kushner’s deliberate choice to focus on Middle East issues and collaborate with Gulf Arab states, anticipating future financial gains. He drew parallels to the impeachment inquiry against President Biden by House Republicans, who allege that Biden’s son, Hunter, leveraged his father’s influence for personal profit. Rhodes contrasted this with Kushner, who, unlike Hunter Biden, amassed $2 billion after his White House tenure, coinciding with his father-in-law’s presidential campaign. He emphasized the unprecedented nature of these circumstances.
When questioned by The New York Times, Kushner defended himself and his firm against allegations of conflicts of interest. He emphasized their commitment to adhering to laws and regulations, acknowledging the importance of public perception but asserting his inability to control others’ opinions. House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer previously criticized Kushner, accusing him of ethical breaches for accepting a $2 billion investment. Rhodes condemned this action, stating that it essentially places a monetary value on American foreign policy and represents an unprecedented level of corruption, despite being evident to all.
Relevant articles:
– Former Obama adviser: Kushner engaged in ‘level of corruption that we’ve just never seen’ with foreign relations
– Ben Rhodes Accuses Jared Kushner of Corruption ‘Like We’ve Never Seen Before’ In Taking Billions From the Saudis, Mediaite, Thu, 11 Apr 2024 21:14:00 GMT