Kamala’s Brother-In-Law Alleged to Have Funneled Billions to Allies

Amid heightened scrutiny of political finance, allegations have surfaced around Tony West, the brother-in-law of Vice President Kamala Harris.

Claims suggest that during his tenure at the Department of Justice, West engaged in practices benefiting political allies, potentially escalating under the Biden-Harris administration, as the New York Post reports.

West, who is married to Kamala Harris's sister Maya, started his role at the head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division in 2009.

His tenure, accused of echoing so-called "honest graft" practices from past political eras, has raised significant ethical questions.

Understanding the Role and Changes in the Justice Department

Historically, a cap set by Congress in 1977 required approval for any civil suit settlement against the Federal government exceeding $100,000, a measure to maintain congressional oversight over government spending. The removal of this cap has subsequently increased the autonomy of the Justice Department in managing large settlements.

The Treasury Department’s Judgment Fund, instrumental in facilitating these payments, is criticized for its lack of transparency, an issue that became pronounced during West's management. Under his direction, the handling of settlements evolved, with funds increasingly directed towards organizations that shared his political ideology.

The Shift in DOJ Settlement Policies Under West

In a notable shift in 2010, West influenced a Department of Justice settlement that extended beyond its original scope, incorporating thousands of farmers who had not previously claimed bias. This led to a $1.33 billion settlement, which later ballooned to over $4.4 billion as more claimants joined.

This expansion was not isolated. West also structured bank settlements to mandate contributions to groups supporting Democratic causes, explicitly excluding conservative ones. A 2016 settlement with Volkswagen, for instance, mandated a $2 billion contribution to an electric car initiative, a project that never received Congressional approval.

Controversial Settlements and Political Repercussions

Quotes from within the Justice Department reveal dissatisfaction with these practices. A department expert criticized the settlements with Native American farmers, suggesting that the government would have prevailed if the cases had gone to trial. "It was just a joke... I was so disgusted. It was simply buying the support of the Native Americans," the expert lamented.

Amid these controversies, a settlement proposal with illegal immigrants and payments to FBI agents Peter Strzok and Lisa Page for alleged Privacy Act violations have also surfaced, further complicating the ethical landscape under the Biden-Harris administration.

Wider Implications and Future Concerns

An email regarding the Volkswagen settlement reflects a tongue-in-cheek admiration for West's handling of the funds, suggesting a figurative statue be built in his honor. Meanwhile, a stark comment about the potential escalation of such practices hints at larger political implications: "Hunter Biden steps aside. A new 'Big Guy' is coming to town. Kamala, with the help of Tony West and his cronies, will show you how Honest Graft is really done."

As these allegations unfold, the political ramifications for Vice President Harris and the current administration remain uncertain. With Harris potentially poised for a presidential run, the continuation of these controversial practices could have significant implications for her campaign and the broader political landscape.