RNC is paying some of Trump’s legal fees in the New York investigation into the Trump Organization
The RNC made two payments totaling $121,670 to Fischetti and Malgieri LLP in October, the commission’s recent report filed with the Federal Election Commission shows. Ronald Fischetti, a corporate partner and criminal defense attorney, is representing Trump in a criminal investigation into the Trump Organization’s business practices.
Fischetti did not immediately respond to CNN’s request for comment. Trump aides also did not immediately respond.
An RNC spokesman said in a statement that “its executive committee has approved payment for a number of legal costs related to politically motivated legal proceedings against President Trump.” .”
“As a leader of our party, defending President Trump and his record is very important to the GOP,” she added. “It is entirely appropriate for the RNC to continue to assist against the Democrats’ never-ending witch hunt and raids.”
The Democratic National Committee was quick to embrace the statement, saying in particular that “the RNC said it best: Donald Trump leads the Republican Party.”
“Ronna McDaniel and the Republican National Committee are using their donors’ money to fund Trump’s personal legal defense while he is relying on them,” spokeswoman Adona Biel said. into hundreds of millions of their own money as well as campaign funds. “This is the GOP of today – a party that would do anything for a divisive and incompetent former president who cost their party with the House, Senate and White House as well as the the lives and livelihoods of thousands of Americans. If we were sponsors of the RNC, we would certainly be asking questions.”
James’s office partnered with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office earlier this year and released an indictment accusing the Trump Organization and its chief financial officer, Allen Weisselberg, of running a fraudulent conspiracy. tax fraud for 15 years.
This story was updated with additional details on Monday.
CNN’s Kara Scannell contributed to this report.
