Melania Trump’s presence on the campaign trail for her husband’s presidential bid has been noticeably limited this year. However, one of her few public appearances has sparked controversy as it was paid, CNN reports.
The former First Lady was paid $237,500 for speaking at an April fundraiser for the Log Cabin Republicans. This hefty sum, listed as a “speaking engagement” on former President Donald Trump’s financial disclosure form, has raised eyebrows among campaign finance and government ethics experts.
The mystery lies in the source of the payment. While the disclosure form claims Melania Trump was paid by the Log Cabin Republicans, the group’s president, Charles Moran, has denied providing the funds. The form offers no further details about the origin of the money.
A similar situation unfolded ahead of another Log Cabin Republican fundraiser in July, where a source revealed that a donor was approached to cover a speaking fee for Melania Trump. It remains unclear whether she ultimately received this payment. Former Ambassador to Germany and Trump ally Ric Grenell, known to have assisted Melania Trump with other business ventures, is believed to have made this request.
Experts are expressing concern over the lack of transparency surrounding these payments, particularly considering the limited role Melania Trump has played in the campaign.
Some supporters defend Melania Trump’s right to receive payment for her time.
Melania Trump has a history of participating in Log Cabin Republican events, having attended their annual Spirit of Lincoln Gala in 2021.
