Trump Delays Ethics Pledge, Criticized by Lawmakers

President-elect Donald Trump has yet to sign a mandatory ethics agreement required under the Presidential Transition Act, delaying the transition process as he prepares to assume office on January 20, 2025. This delay stems from concerns over avoiding conflicts of interest, a requirement Trump himself enacted into law in March 2020. The failure to sign this agreement has prevented Trump's team from accessing classified materials and participating in transition briefings, which are crucial for taking over federal government operations. Trump’s refusal to sign the ethics pledge has drawn criticism from lawmakers, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren, who co-sponsored the legislation. Historically, presidents have complied with these ethics rules by divesting conflicting interests, but Trump has shown no interest in doing so, as he continues to profit from his business ventures. His non-compliance raises concerns about potential ethical violations similar to those observed during his previous term.