Trump Vows to Fire Advisers Over Bosnian Entity Payments
Donald Trump pledges to fire two senior campaign advisers if their consulting work for a Russian-aligned Bosnian government creates a conflict.
Lauren Collins ·
President Donald Trump stated he would terminate senior political advisers Chris LaCivita and James Blair if their external consulting activities create a conflict of interest. This declaration follows reports that both advisers received compensation from Republika Srpska, a Russian-aligned entity within Bosnia and Herzegovina, ahead of recent local elections.
LaCivita and Blair currently hold prominent roles in campaign operations and a related Super PAC. Reports indicate they accepted payments via a Washington, D.C.-based law firm retained by the Bosnian entity. This arrangement underscores potential vulnerabilities regarding foreign influence in high-level campaign staffing.
Advisers' External Engagements Questioned
President Trump clarified that the advisers operate as President Trump clarified that the advisers operate as outside consultants, not direct employees. He stated he was previously unaware of their specific client list but has committed to reviewing their external engagements.
The President posted on Truth Social, stating he would "immediately" fire them if a conflict emerged. The situation remains under review to determine if these financial ties violate internal campaign ethics or broader political security standards.
The New York Times initially reported the payments to LaCivita and Blair, highlighting their travel to Republika Srpska.
Campaign Ethics Under Scrutiny LaCivita served as a senior adviser during his The potential conflicts emerge as both advisers are central to Trump's campaign efforts. LaCivita served as a senior adviser during his 2024 campaign, and Blair, a former White House adviser, took leave to lead a Trump-aligned Super PAC. Their roles indicate significant influence within the campaign structure.
The issue raises questions about transparency and accountability for political consultants who maintain external client portfolios while advising top political figures, particularly concerning entities with foreign policy implications.