Top buyers of Trump-sponsored crypto win exclusive dinner with president
Source: The Guardian
On Monday, the top 220 buyers of a Donald Trump-sponsored cryptocurrency won access to an exclusive dinner with the president as a reward for pouring money into the coin. It was the culmination of Trump’s weekslong promotion of the contest, which has drawn allegations that he is using his position to enrich his family business while opening himself up to foreign influence.
The cryptocurrency, called $TRUMP, was created in mid-January and boasts a market capitalization of over $2bn after months of investors buying into the heavily promoted coin. A Trump family-linked company and another firm own a majority of the coins, according to Reuters.
“Congratulations, if you’re in the top 220 on the leaderboard we will be contacting you in the next 24 hours. Check your inbox (and spam folder) and expect a phone call for the Trump Official Dinner invitation and details,” the $TRUMP website announced mid-day on Monday. “President Trump will see YOU on May 22 at the Gala Dinner in Washington D.C.”
Trump’s crypto enterprise has drawn criticism from Democrats, ethics watchdogs and even the Securities and Exchange Commission over potential conflicts of interest and allegations of corruption. The contest to dine with the president has intensified those concerns, as it has created what is essentially a bidding war for direct access to the president.
Read more: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/may/12/top-buyers-trump-cryptocurrency-dinner
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