Former U.S. President Donald Trump has distanced himself from two of his senior political advisers, following reports of their involvement with the government of Republika Srpska in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Chris LaCivita, who played a significant role in managing Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign, and James Blair, a former White House deputy chief of staff, have been identified as consultants for the Serb-majority entity’s government.
Trump clarified that while LaCivita and Blair are independent consultants, their work for him is limited to that capacity. He emphasized that they are allowed to take on other clients but mentioned that he would examine their external engagements for any potential conflicts of interest.
The controversy arose after reports indicated that LaCivita and Blair traveled to Republika Srpska before recent elections to provide political assistance, for which they were reportedly paid substantial sums. This development has sparked concerns about whether their roles with a foreign government might interfere with their political activities in the United States.
LaCivita has been a long-time political associate of Trump and was a key figure in his 2024 presidential campaign. Meanwhile, Blair, who is currently on leave from his White House role, continues to support Republican candidates in the lead-up to the U.S. midterm elections. Trump has previously stated that Blair would return to the White House following the elections.
This situation has raised broader questions about the appropriateness of political advisers maintaining consulting roles with foreign governments while being deeply involved in U.S. political operations. Trump’s comments suggest a willingness to address these concerns, though the outcome of any review remains to be seen.