1. United States
2. Md.
3. Letter

I am writing with serious concern about recent reporting suggesting that a small group of wealthy insiders may be exerting disproportionate influence over U.S. policy. These reports raise questions about whether key decisions are being guided by private gain rather than national interest or the well-being of American families. For example, The Wall Street Journal reported that discussions regarding a potential Ukraine peace framework involved proposals originating from Russian intermediaries, including business opportunities in critical sectors such as energy, mining, and reconstruction. According to the same reporting, these proposals involved individuals with ties to both the White House and Russian business networks. As Rep. Don Bacon, a Republican on the House Armed Services Committee, said: “I don’t want to see a foreign policy based on greed. I want to see it based on doing the right thing.” These concerns deserve independent scrutiny. Major outlets have also reported that prominent business figures with financial interests in technology, cryptocurrency, and AI have participated directly in policy conversations where they stand to benefit. Whether these activities are ultimately judged to be legal or improper, they present clear questions about conflicts of interest, transparency, and accountability. Further reporting has raised concerns that members of the former President’s family and inner circle pursued global business ventures while U.S. policy shifted in ways that appeared to align with those pursuits. The same pattern appears in recent clemency decisions that benefited individuals convicted of financial crimes that harmed workers and retirees. These actions deepen public concerns about unequal treatment and selective use of power. Finally, Americans across the political spectrum still lack full answers regarding the Epstein files and the broader network of influence around him. Voters deserve clarity and accountability regardless of political party or status. The public needs confidence that policy is being made in the national interest—not as a vehicle for private enrichment. Congress should fully investigate potential conflicts of interest, foreign influence, policymaking involving private business ventures. Decisions affecting national security, foreign policy, and economic opportunity must reflect the rule of law and the interests of ordinary Americans—not only the wealthy and well-connected.