1. United States
2. Iowa
3. Letter

I am writing to request an immediate congressional investigation into reports that former President Donald Trump may have used U.S. tariff policy toward Vietnam to secure personal or family business advantages. These reports allege that tariffs—reportedly reaching levels that increased costs on Vietnamese imports by as much as 40%—were used as leverage to obtain concessions benefiting his private interests. These allegations are extremely serious. If a President used tariff authority or the threat of tariffs to enrich himself, it would represent a direct abuse of power that undermines the core principles of our democracy. Such actions would also mean that American consumers and businesses were forced to shoulder billions in additional costs not for legitimate national policy, but for the personal gain of an individual in public office. Even the possibility of this scenario demands full transparency. Tariff decisions affect supply chains, prices, small businesses, and families across the country. The idea that such decisions could be tied to personal business deals raises urgent concerns about corruption, foreign influence, and the integrity of U.S. economic policy. It also risks damaging America’s credibility in global trade relations and weakens the trust that citizens must have in their government. Congress has a constitutional duty to provide oversight, prevent corruption, and ensure public office is never used for private benefit. These allegations, if left unexamined, could set a dangerous precedent and further erode public confidence in government institutions. Therefore, I urge you to support or initiate: 1. A formal investigation through the appropriate congressional committees; 2. A comprehensive review of the decision-making process behind recent tariff actions involving Vietnam; 3. A public accounting of any financial ties or business relationships that could have influenced policy decisions; 4. Legislative safeguards to prevent any administration from using tariff power or foreign policy tools for personal enrichment. This is not a partisan issue. Every American, regardless of political affiliation, deserves a government that acts in the public interest. Investigating these allegations is essential to preserving the integrity of our democracy, protecting taxpayers, and ensuring that no official—past or present—can exploit public authority for personal gain. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response and to seeing meaningful action taken to uphold accountability and public trust.