President-elect Trump's pick to lead the Treasury Department, Scott Bessent, has announced his intention to divest from his assets if confirmed to the position. Bessent plans to divest from his Key Square Group hedge fund and other investments to prevent any potential conflicts of interest. This decision was communicated to the Treasury Department's ethics office as part of his commitment to upholding ethical standards.
According to sources, Bessent's assets are valued at a minimum of $521 million, as reported by Fortune. By divesting from his financial holdings, Bessent aims to ensure transparency and maintain the integrity of his role as Secretary of the Department of Treasury, should he be confirmed.
Bessent's pledge to divest from his assets aligns with the ethical guidelines set forth for government officials to avoid any perceived conflicts of interest. This proactive step underscores his commitment to serving in the Treasury Department with integrity and accountability.
On Thursday, Bessent is scheduled to appear before the Senate Finance Committee, where he will likely face questions regarding his financial holdings and plans for divestment. This hearing will provide an opportunity for lawmakers to assess Bessent's suitability for the position and gain further insights into his approach to managing potential conflicts of interest.