New reporting from the Associated Press highlights how, in just six months, Donald Trump has leveraged the powers of the presidency to drive massive financial gains for himself and his family.
Trump is using the trappings of the presidency to sell licensed merchandise, including Bibles, guitars, and shoes – all promoted through presidential platforms and federal outlets.
Much like his first term in office, Trump is charging conservative groups and campaign donors to use Trump-owned venues. Since 2015, those groups have spent $25 million at Trump properties.
Trump is also embracing pro-cryptocurrency policies while profiteering from cryptocurrency ventures, including one stablecoin that received a $2 billion investment from the United Arab Emirates.
Outside of the White House, Trump’s children are actively pursuing real estate projects in the Middle East and Europe, reportedly using the Trump administration’s influence to advance their ventures.
While Trump turns the Oval Office back into a cash cow for himself and his children, Americans are struggling to keep up in his economy. Data from the National Association of Realtors shows housing affordability fell in May as home prices rose faster than median family incomes. In June, existing home sales fell 2.7%, their lowest level in 9 months, as prices climbed to a new all-time high.
“Donald Trump’s first priority is cashing in on the presidency, and that whole ‘running the government’ thing is just a side hustle,” said American Bridge 21st Century spokesperson Brandon Weathersby. “While American families are being priced out of the housing market, he’s using the presidency to boost his personal fortune, peddle cheap merchandise, and cut deals for his kids. It’s corruption in plain sight, and hardworking Americans are the ones paying the price.”
Published: Jul 25, 2025