The New York Times article discusses how President-elect Donald J. Trump is running his transition team, Trump Vance 2025 Transition Inc., by raising funds without disclosing donor identities, a departure from historical norms. By not signing an agreement with the Biden administration that would restrict fundraising and provide up to $7.2 million in federal funds for the transition, Trump can raise unlimited money from undisclosed sources. This tactic could obscure potential conflicts of interest, as foreign nationals are permitted to contribute to transitions, unlike campaign funds. Critics, including Senator Elizabeth Warren, have expressed concern that this lack of transparency could undermine democratic processes and allow undue influence over the incoming administration. The article also mentions that previous transitions were more regulated, raising money under strict limitations and ethical guidelines.

Key Points:

• Trump is running his transition team with undisclosed donors and bypassing traditional fundraising norms.
• He declined to sign an agreement with the Biden administration that allows for $7.2 million in federal funds while limiting fundraising.
• The transition, categorized as a "dark money" nonprofit, does not have to disclose donor information.
• Foreign nationals can donate to the transition without regulation, raising ethical concerns.
• Lawmakers did not foresee a candidate rejecting federal funding and refusing to establish an ethics code.
• Previous transitions have mandated disclosure of contributions and set caps on donations.
  Link to Article