The White House is supporting U.S. border czar Tom Homan amidst allegations that he received $50,000 from undercover agents posing as businesspeople during an FBI operation last year. Press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the encounter was an attempt by the Biden administration to entrap Homan, a top ally of the president. The White House affirmed its backing of Homan, emphasizing that he had committed no wrongdoing and had effectively assisted in border security efforts.
Reports by MSNBC revealed that Homan accepted the money in a meeting with undercover agents on September 20, 2024, who pretended to seek government contracts in a potential second term for Trump. The Justice Department under the Trump administration concluded a full review of the matter, finding no evidence of criminal behavior, leading to the closure of the investigation.
During a briefing, Leavitt refuted claims that Homan received $50,000 but did not provide further details. However, Reuters sources confirmed the cash acceptance by Homan. In response to Fox News host Laura Ingraham’s question about the alleged cash acceptance, Homan asserted his innocence and highlighted his long history of law enforcement.
White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson clarified that Homan was not involved in contract award decisions. The White House criticized the Biden administration’s investigation as politically motivated, despite FBI Director Christopher Wray, a Republican, overseeing the investigation. Democrats have urged the release of recordings and documents related to the halted investigation into Homan’s actions.
Homan played a crucial role in implementing stringent immigration policies and deportation efforts under the Trump administration. Concerns have been raised about potential political influence in Justice Department affairs, particularly as Trump has called for investigations against his opponents. The report has prompted discussions on the Justice Department’s independence in prosecutorial decision-making.
Democratic Senator Chris Murphy highlighted the perceived double standards in justice, citing instances of leniency towards Trump allies and harsh treatment of his critics. Several Justice Department and FBI officials have faced dismissals this year, with some resorting to legal action against the administration.
