Washington Post columnist Catherine Rampell has raised concerns that former President Donald Trump's new cryptocurrency, $TRUMP, could be used as a conduit for bribes from foreign entities. In a recent column, Rampell criticized those who invested in the cryptocurrency, suggesting they are being exploited financially. She questioned the long-term viability of the coin, speculating that its value is artificially inflated and dependent on finding subsequent buyers willing to pay even higher prices.

Rampell's central argument revolves around the potential for foreign governments and individuals seeking to gain favor with Trump to use the cryptocurrency as an indirect means of bribery. She argues that by purchasing $TRUMP, these entities could effectively increase Trump's net worth, potentially circumventing the Foreign Emoluments Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits officials from accepting gifts or titles from foreign states without Congressional consent.

Rampell also raised concerns about potential insider trading, suggesting that individuals with inside knowledge of $TRUMP may be transferring tokens to overseas platforms beyond the reach of U.S. regulators. She drew a parallel between Trump's inaugural address, where he criticized the established power structure for exploiting citizens, and his own cryptocurrency venture, insinuating hypocrisy.

The White House has not yet responded to requests for comment on these allegations.