Democratic lawmakers call for review of Trump's appointment of son-in-law

A group of Democratic lawmakers are calling for a review of Donald Trump's appointment of his son-in-law as a senior White House adviser due to concerns about nepotism and conflicts of interest.

Jared Kushner and his wife, Ivanka Trump. Photo: IBTimes

In a letter dated January 9, the Democratic congressmen, all members of the US House Judiciary Committee, called on the Justice Department and the Office of Government Ethics to review Mr. Trump's appointment of Jared Kushner.

They argue that the 1967 federal anti-nepotism law could apply to White House staff, according to the BBC. They also question how Kushner has managed to avoid conflicts of interest with his White House role, even while significantly reducing his business activities.

Trump announced on January 9 that anti-nepotism laws do not apply to the executive branch of government and appointed Kushner as a senior White House adviser. Kushner will not receive a salary, but he will be a White House employee, meaning he is subject to federal conflict-of-interest laws.

Kushner's attorney, Jamie Gorelick, said the position does not violate anti-nepotism laws. Her client is committed to complying with federal ethics laws and has consulted with the Office of Government Ethics about next steps.

Millionaire Kushner, husband of Ivanka Trump, Donald Trump's daughter, will step down as owner of the family real estate business and publisher of the New York Observer newspaper to comply with ethics laws, as well as divest from ownership of a number of significant assets.

Federal law prohibits public officials from appointing, hiring, promoting, or appointing family members to a civilian position within the agency over which the official serves, has authority, or controls, but Trump officials have said the ban does not apply to presidents, according to USA Today.

According to VNE