Howard Lutnick, the commerce secretary in the Trump administration, and his family have close business ties to El Salvador, a country led by authoritarian Nayib Bukele. The family’s business interests intersect with El Salvador’s booming cryptocurrency and new media industry, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest. Cantor Fitzgerald, previously headed by Lutnick, holds a significant stake in the cryptocurrency firm Tether, which has faced regulatory scrutiny for alleged fraudulent practices.

The article highlights Cantor’s investments in Rumble, a Trump-aligned video platform, and its connections to El Salvador’s government. Tether’s relocation to El Salvador and its involvement in various projects with Bukele’s regime have raised concerns about the Trump administration’s deepening ties with an authoritarian regime known for its harsh crackdowns.

Additionally, the article delves into Tether’s controversial history, including investigations for sanctions busting and money laundering. Despite these challenges, Tether has continued to operate in the cryptocurrency market, attracting criticism and regulatory scrutiny.

Lutnick’s involvement with Tether and Rumble has come under scrutiny, with questions raised about potential conflicts of interest and questionable business practices. The close relationships between Tether, Rumble, and the Trump administration suggest a complex web of financial interests and political connections that warrant further investigation.