President-elect Donald Trump has made headlines by selecting family members for key positions in his upcoming administration. Billionaire Massad Boulos, father-in-law of Trump's daughter Tiffany, has been chosen as senior adviser on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs. Boulos, described by Trump as a respected leader in the business world with extensive international experience, is expected to advocate for US interests and peace in the Middle East.
This appointment follows Trump's naming of real estate developer Charles Kushner, father of Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, as the next US ambassador to France. Trump's reliance on family members for important roles has been a recurring theme throughout his presidency.
During his first term, Trump's daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared served as senior advisers, with Jared playing a key role in negotiating the Abraham Accords. Trump's sons, Donald Jr. and Eric, managed the family business and became prominent figures in his 2024 campaign. Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of the president-elect, was appointed as co-chair of the Republican National Committee.
While questions of conflicts of interest and nepotism have been raised, Trump's family members have continued to play influential roles in his administration. Jared Kushner's involvement, in particular, has drawn scrutiny due to his founding of an investment fund with backing from Gulf sovereign wealth funds.
These appointments come amid ongoing debates over transparency and accountability in government. Congressional Republicans have introduced legislation requiring presidents and vice presidents to disclose tax returns and foreign payments received by themselves or their families during and after their time in office.
As Trump prepares for his second term, the influence and activities of his family members in the US government remain a topic of interest and discussion.
