
The top lawyer on Donald Trump's transition team conducted a review that recommended sharply constraining adviser Boris Epshteyn's access to the president-elect due to allegations of using his proximity to Trump to secure payments from individuals seeking roles or influence in the new administration. This personnel drama sheds light on the diverse and sometimes disorganized group of individuals surrounding Trump, contributing to the chaos of his first term and potentially impacting the transition to his second term.
Among those Epshteyn is alleged to have sought payments from is Scott Bessent, Trump's nominee for treasury secretary. The review also examined a complaint from former Missouri Gov. Eric Greitens, who expressed interest in joining Trump's administration and recounted feeling pressured to engage in business dealings with Epshteyn before advocating for his appointment to the President.