Trump Inc, American kleptocracy and the art of US State Capture
Something worryingly similar to South Africa’s State Capture is happening in the richest and most powerful country on the planet. And, as with Jacob Zuma, it’s about far more than one man; it is the entire family. This is a generational project of industrial-scale looting.
In the United States, a growing concern is emerging that mirrors South Africa's notorious State Capture. This phenomenon, characterized by private interests seizing control of government machinery for personal gain, extends beyond a single individual, affecting entire families. Natale Labia, a partner and chief economist at a global investment firm, highlights how this is not just about one man, but a broader, generational scheme of industrial-scale looting.
Like Jacob Zuma in South Africa, the Trump family is implicated in this corrupt enterprise. Kimberly Guilfoyle, a former Fox News presenter and Donald Trump Jr.'s former fiancée, is at the center of this alleged scheme. She allegedly sought $100,000 from Eric Deters, a Trump donor, to settle her American Express bill. Deters, who made his fortune through a pizza chain, had already paid Guilfoyle $300,000 in speaking fees.
Their correspondence suggests that access to senior administration officials was being offered in exchange for financial favors.
The Trump Organization, run by Eric and Don Jr., has capitalized on the family name to license various products and services, generating millions in revenue. This includes everything from Trump sneakers and watches to more controversial items like a Trump bible. Forbes reported that Don Jr.'s fortune grew sixfold in a single year, reaching $300 million, while Eric's wealth increased tenfold to $400 million, supplemented by cryptocurrency investments and online betting.
The scale of this corruption is unprecedented in U.S. history. It has similarities to Russia under Vladimir Putin, where the presidency has been used to amass a vast personal fortune while rewarding loyal oligarchs. Trump has allegedly hung a "for sale" sign outside the Oval Office, suggesting that payoffs ensure his attention. While South Africa's experience is unique in its scale and the power of its state apparatus, the underlying issue of private interests subordinating government for personal gain is a common thread in both cases.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Maverick's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
