White House official under investigation over alleged pay-for-play scheme

United States President Donald Trump has ordered an official investigation by the White House Counsel's office following allegations of a "pay-for-play" scheme involving his close advisor, Rick Grenell. The controversy centers on a claim by Turkish businessman Turhan Mildon, who alleges that he transferred 17.6 million dollars to the Texas Armament & Technology (TXAT) company based on instructions from Grenell to secure access to the President, VIP events, and senior government officials.

The investigation highlights a text message dated May 3, 2025, which allegedly promised that once funds reached the firm, a donation would be made to the Kennedy Center. While the businessman claims 5.6 million dollars was earmarked for this donation, the funds never reached the institution. Reports further suggest the money originated from the Ministry of Finance of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Rick Grenell has denied sending the text message and dismissed all accusations as false.

White House officials are currently scrutinizing the evidence to determine if Grenell abused his position and misappropriated funds that were intended for the Kennedy Center while he was in a leadership role. The investigation is ongoing, and no further legal dates have been established at this time.