How Trump’s family-linked crypto deals are threatening a ‘Hunter Biden-style’ scandal at the White House

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Donald Trump Faces Potential Influence-Peddling Scandal Over Crypto Deals

Experts warn that Donald Trump risks undermining his presidency with a Hunter Biden-style influence-peddling scandal if he doesn’t address questionable crypto deals involving his family and investors from the Middle East and China.

Both the $TRUMP meme coin and World Liberty Financial projects, linked to the Trump family, have come under scrutiny for potential foreign influence seeking to gain favor with the White House.

Former US Rep. Charlie Dent noted parallels to Hunter Biden’s situation and raised concerns over foreign entities attempting to buy influence through these crypto projects.

Last week, a Chinese e-commerce firm announced a significant investment in the $TRUMP coin, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest given Trump’s stance on TikTok.

The $TRUMP meme coin was issued by Trump business affiliates. Anadolu via Getty Images

Critics argue that these deals could jeopardize Trump’s efforts to legitimize the crypto sector and provide ammunition to Democratic opponents.

It is imperative for Trump to set clear boundaries for his family and ensure compliance with ethical standards to avoid any appearance of impropriety.

World Liberty Financial, majority-owned by a Trump entity, has raised concerns over the involvement of Chinese investor Justin Sun, potentially posing a security risk.

The Trump Organization executive vice-president Eric Trump (right), World Liberty Financial co-founder Zach Witkoff (middle) and cryptomoney exchange Tron founder Justin Sun (left), participate in a session during the Token 2049 crypto conference in Dubai on May 1, 2025. AFP via Getty Images

The involvement of Trump family members in these crypto ventures has raised concerns about conflicts of interest and the potential for pay-to-play politics within the industry.

Regulatory efforts in the crypto sector may be overshadowed by Trump’s personal investments, casting doubt on the legitimacy of these initiatives.

Despite Trump’s hands-off approach to his business interests during his presidency, the perception of conflicts of interest persists.

President Trump’s assets are parked in a trust managed by his children. REUTERS

Efforts to establish federal regulations for stablecoins were met with resistance in the Senate, with concerns raised over the Trump family’s involvement in $TRUMP and World Liberty Financial.

Senator Cynthia Lummis emphasized the importance of addressing these challenges and delivering on regulatory frameworks for digital assets.