Donald Trump is hosting his annual New Year's Eve party at Mar-a-Lago, his private club in Palm Beach, Florida, but this year the event has drawn scrutiny over the fusion of his business interests and presidential duties. Ticket prices have risen to $600 for members and $750 for guests, up from $525 and $575 last year when Trump was president-elect. The 2016 party was a sell-out, featuring a red carpet, cocktail hour, dinner, and dancing until 1am.
Richard Painter, former chief ethics lawyer under George W. Bush, criticised the event, arguing that Trump's continued use of the club offers preferential access to those who can afford the $200,000 initiation fee. "Trump continues to combine his personal business with his official work," Painter said. He noted that conducting business at Mar-a-Lago allows members to lobby officials without disclosure, as required by the Lobbying Disclosure Act.
During Thanksgiving, club staff placed a red velvet rope around Trump's family table, ostensibly for security but also to limit access from visitors seeking favours. Painter described the situation as "pay-to-play," though he acknowledged that current bribery statutes do not criminalise such access. "It still looks absolutely terrible," he added.
Further controversy surrounds the Trump Organisation's branding. The Palm Beach Post reported that a Trump corporate helicopter, owned by a company whose executives include Eric and Donald Trump Jr., has been parked on the Mar-a-Lago helipad, which was built for presidential use only. Palm Beach residents have also complained that when Trump is in residence, they are restricted from flying private jets into the local airport.
This year's party theme is a "modern fantasy garden" with metallic gold and silver decorations, according to organiser Steve Levine. The event is expected to be larger than last year's, with a VIP area built on stage. The Trump administration has limited access to records of Mar-a-Lago visitors, raising further concerns about transparency.
