President-elect Trump’s transition team pushed back against reports Tuesday that two of his eldest children were selling access through a hunting-themed fundraiser set for the week of the inauguration.
“The Opening Day event and details that have been reported are merely initial concepts that have not been approved or pursued by the Trump family,” said national press secretary Hope Hicks in a statement on Tuesday.
Reports earlier in the day suggested a non-profit called the Opening Day Foundation, which is connected to Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr., was selling a photo opportunity and private meetings with the president-elect and a hunting expedition with one of his sons. The fundraising move was first discovered by the Center for Public Integrity.
Critics quickly accused the Trump team of selling access to the new administration through a nonprofit. Proceeds were supposed to benefit conservation, but no conservation-related beneficiaries have been specified.
“Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump are avid outdoorsmen and supporters of conservation efforts, which align with the goals of this event,” Hicks said. “However, they are not involved in any capacity.”
