Government ethics lawyers have widely condemned Trump for holding onto his vast business empire after taking office. In response to similar lawsuits, Trump and his lawyers have also argued that critics are misinterpreting the emoluments clauses. Trump owns and licenses hotels and resorts around the world, but his decision to hold onto his lavish hotel in Washington is especially troubling to Trump critics. Since inauguration, the Trump International Hotel has hosted parties by foreign embassies and become a favorite gathering spot for lobbyists. If a federal judge allows the case to proceed, Racine has said he will demand copies of Trump's personal tax returns in court to gauge the extent of his foreign business dealings.

Source: ABC News September 29, 2017 23:31 UTC