An unlikely Bipartisan duo has introduced a new bill to force US presidents to disclose their finances. Aside from American leaders, the legislation would require their close relatives to do the same. But is the new bill just targeting US President Joe Biden and GOP presidential runner Donald Trump?
New Bill Requiring US Presidents To Disclose Finances Introduced
Fox Business reported that House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (Kentucky Republican) and US Rep. Katie Porter (Californian Democrat on the same committee) collaborated to create the new bill.
Their main goal is to require US presidents to provide tax filings from two years before their election to two years after leaving their positions. But are they just targeting Joe Biden and Trump?
The Bipartisan duo clarified that this isn't their goal since they only want to ensure fairness and accountability in the Oval Office without regard to political party.
"[Porter is] not doing it to pick on Trump and I'm not doing it to pick on Biden," said James Comer.
Other Bills Targeting US Presidents
In addition to the bill introduced by the Bipartisan duo, Democratic lawmakers introduced another bill on Tuesday, May 21. This legislation prevents presidents and other high-ranking officials from receiving payments indirectly or directly from foreign governments.
They can't do this even if foreign governments send the money through businesses they control. The new bill would create penalties for unauthorized acceptance of foreign payments.
If it becomes law, the bill would apply for two years after leaving office unless Congress authorized an exception. Unfortunately, Reuters reported that this bill cannot pass the Republican-controlled House of Representatives, especially since the presidential election is just around the corner.
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