Trump Media's Generous Stock Grants Raise Conflict of Interest Concerns

Trump Media & Technology Group (DJT) has made headlines recently with its generous stock grants to several directors, including two who are nominees for high-ranking positions in the Trump administration. The company awarded 25,946 shares of stock each to Kash Patel, Donald Trump Jr., and Linda McMahon, who are all serving as Trump Media directors. Additionally, three other directors—former U.S. trade representative Robert Lighthizer, Eric Swider, and Kyle Green—received the same number of shares at no cost. The filings stated that the awards were granted "as consideration for services provided" between late March and December 25, 2024.



The timing of these stock grants, which occurred just hours after Patel's confirmation hearing for FBI director, has raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the appearance of impropriety. As nominees for high-ranking positions in the Trump administration, Patel and McMahon are expected to make decisions that could potentially impact Trump Media's interests. The stock grants create a direct financial link between the nominees, board members, and Trump Media, which could influence their decision-making processes and create conflicts of interest.

Moreover, the grants could be perceived as an attempt to curry favor with the Trump administration or secure favorable treatment. This could further erode the public's trust in Trump Media's independence and objectivity, as well as the nominees' ability to make impartial decisions in their respective roles.

The stock grants also raise questions about the ethical guidelines and regulations governing public officials. Ethics watchdogs have expressed concerns about Trump's businesses, including Trump Media, becoming a means for corporate interests and foreign actors to try to garner influence with the administration. The grants appear to violate ethical guidelines for public officials, which typically prohibit conflicts of interest and the appearance of impropriety.

In conclusion, Trump Media's generous stock grants to its directors, including two Trump administration nominees, have raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the appearance of impropriety. The grants could impact the perception of Trump Media's independence and objectivity, particularly in relation to its social media platform, Truth Social. The timing of the grants, just hours after Patel's confirmation hearing, has further exacerbated these concerns. As the Senate considers Patel's nomination for FBI director, the stock grants could influence the decision-making process and draw additional scrutiny from senators.