Another corruption opportunity for the US President
Looks like Hollywood is also joining the Trump corruption express, which was reported on by both Variety and The Hollywood Reporter . The activity that is leading to corruption concerns is tied to a lawsuit which Mr. Trump, prior to becoming the President of the United States, filed against Paramount. This was specifically against the parent company of CBS, alleging that “60 Minutes” edited an interview with Kamala Harris which he alleged violated a Texas consumer protection law by distorting voters’ impressions of her. The case was going forward as it was deemed by legal experts to be a baseless lawsuit since CBS was protected under the First Amendment. The assumption was the lawsuit would be won by Paramount in court proceeding. It was then quite surprising that it was settled, with Paramount providing $15 million dollars to Mr. Trump’s future library and $1 million for legal fees.
This settlement came to the notice of Senator Elizabeth Warren who stated that “[w]ith Paramount folding to Donald Trump at the same time the company needs his administration’s approval for its billion-dollar merger, this could be bribery in plain sight,” Warren said in a statement. “Paramount has refused to provide answers to a congressional inquiry, so I’m calling for a full investigation into whether or not any anti-bribery laws were broken.” Additionally, an FCC commissioner noted that the settlement was a problem regarding First Amendment protections, as well as agreed upon behind closed doors, all of which was very concerning.
What should be done in this case? As it looks very much like a quid pro quo, which taints the entire process, the following Paramount merger needs to be monitored. The Senate and the FCC are watching but other groups should also monitor. The good news is that this is being followed and there is still a possible problem for Paramount’s executives, as corruption, essentially a kickback in this case, is still a crime.
Links:
https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/warren-investigation-paramount-trump-settlement-bribery-1236446129/