Former U.S. President Donald Trump has distanced himself from two senior political advisers following reports of their involvement as paid consultants for Bosnia’s Republika Srpska government. The advisers, Chris LaCivita and James Blair, have been linked to the Serb-majority entity within Bosnia and Herzegovina, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest.
Trump clarified that LaCivita, who co-managed his 2024 presidential campaign, and Blair, a former White House deputy chief of staff, are independent consultants who do not work directly for him aside from their specific roles. He emphasized that while they are permitted to engage with other clients, he plans to review their external activities to ensure no conflicts of interest arise.
Reports indicate that LaCivita and Blair traveled to Republika Srpska ahead of recent elections, providing political assistance to the local government and receiving substantial payments for their services. Both advisers have maintained strong political connections with Trump over several years and are actively involved in supporting Republican candidates for the upcoming U.S. midterm elections.
Concerns have emerged regarding the implications of their work for a foreign government on their political roles in the United States. LaCivita played a significant part in Trump’s presidential campaign efforts, while Blair, currently on leave from his White House role, is assisting with Republican election initiatives. Trump has noted that Blair is expected to return to the White House following the midterm elections.
This development has sparked broader discussions about the external consulting activities of political advisers who remain closely linked to Trump’s political endeavors while holding or maintaining ties to government positions. Trump’s comments suggest a willingness to address these concerns, contingent on the findings of his review of their outside engagements.
