Kushner, Inc.

1. The Kushner family's rise from Holocaust survivors to real estate moguls

"Everything we did was against the relief of the Holocaust. Surviving, growing, getting rich, power, politics … this was all to spite the Nazis, to spite what they did to us."

From tragedy to triumph. The Kushner family story begins with Joseph and Rae Kushner, Holocaust survivors who immigrated to the United States in 1949. Driven by a desire to overcome their past trauma and ensure their family's security, they built a successful real estate empire in New Jersey.

Building an empire. Joe Kushner honed his carpentry skills and began constructing apartment buildings, becoming one of the "Holocaust builders" who transformed agricultural land into thriving suburban communities. The family's wealth grew rapidly, allowing them to provide a privileged upbringing for their children, including Charlie Kushner, Jared's father.

A complicated legacy. The Holocaust experience shaped the Kushner family's worldview, instilling a deep sense of exceptionalism and distrust of outsiders. This mentality, passed down through generations, would later influence Jared Kushner's approach to business and politics, often prioritizing family loyalty over conventional ethics and rules.

2. Jared Kushner's privileged upbringing and entry into the family business

"He had zero awareness that he was born on third base."

A golden childhood. Jared Kushner grew up in a wealthy, Orthodox Jewish family in New Jersey. His father, Charlie, spared no expense in providing the best education and opportunities for his children. Jared attended elite schools, including Harvard University, where his admission was allegedly secured through a substantial donation from his father.

Groomed for success. From an early age, Jared was positioned as the heir apparent to the Kushner Companies. He spent summers working on construction sites and was exposed to high-level business dealings. This early immersion in the family business shaped his future ambitions and approach to deal-making.

Entry into the business world. After graduating, Jared quickly assumed a leadership role in Kushner Companies, despite his limited experience. His rapid ascent was facilitated by his family connections and wealth, rather than merit or expertise. This privileged start would later fuel criticism of his qualifications for high-level government positions.

3. Charlie Kushner's legal troubles and their impact on the family

"I think [the sting] put him in prison. He gave up the moral high ground."

A fall from grace. In 2004, Charlie Kushner was arrested on charges of tax evasion, witness tampering, and making illegal campaign contributions. The most shocking aspect of the case was Charlie's attempt to blackmail his brother-in-law by hiring a prostitute to seduce him and videotaping the encounter.

Family implications. Charlie's conviction and subsequent two-year prison sentence had a profound impact on the Kushner family. Jared, then in his early twenties, was thrust into a leadership role at Kushner Companies. This experience shaped his worldview and deepened his loyalty to his father.

A tainted legacy. The scandal tarnished the Kushner name and created lasting tensions within the extended family. It also instilled in Jared a desire to rehabilitate the family's reputation, which would later influence his political ambitions and alignment with Donald Trump.

4. Jared and Ivanka's courtship and strategic marriage

"You couldn't write that script."

A power couple emerges. Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump met in 2007 through mutual business connections. Their relationship quickly became a subject of public fascination, combining two of New York's most prominent real estate families.

Overcoming obstacles. The couple's relationship faced initial resistance from the Kushner family due to Ivanka not being Jewish. However, Ivanka's eventual conversion to Judaism and the couple's shared ambition helped overcome these objections.

A union of dynasties. Their 2009 wedding was seen as a merger of two powerful families, with implications beyond just personal romance. The marriage positioned Jared and Ivanka as a formidable duo in both business and, later, politics.

• Combined resources and connections of Trump and Kushner empires
• Shared ambition and complementary skills
• Platform for future political aspirations

5. The Kushners' acquisition of 666 Fifth Avenue and subsequent financial struggles

"Debt was Charlie's friend."

A risky purchase. In 2007, Kushner Companies acquired 666 Fifth Avenue for a record-breaking $1.8 billion, with Jared leading the deal. The purchase was financed almost entirely with debt, reflecting the Kushners' aggressive business strategy.

Financial turmoil. The 2008 financial crisis hit the property hard, leading to plummeting occupancy rates and difficulties in meeting loan payments. The Kushners struggled to refinance the massive debt and were forced to sell portions of the building to stay afloat.

Desperate measures. The financial pressure from 666 Fifth Avenue would later influence Jared's actions in the White House, as he sought investors and deals that could help salvage the troubled property. This included:

• Courting foreign investors from China and Qatar
• Exploring deals that raised ethical concerns
• Leveraging political connections for financial gain

6. Jared's role in the Trump campaign and transition to the White House

"Take everything you've learned and throw it out the window."

Unexpected campaign strategist. Initially reluctant to get involved, Jared became increasingly influential in Donald Trump's 2016 presidential campaign. He leveraged his business connections and digital marketing expertise to shape campaign strategy.

Key campaign contributions:

• Oversaw digital operations and targeted advertising
• Facilitated relationships with key donors and influencers
• Helped craft Trump's Israel policy and AIPAC speech

Transition team leader. Following Trump's victory, Jared played a central role in the presidential transition, often sidelining experienced political operatives. His influence extended to key appointments and policy priorities, setting the stage for his future White House role.

7. Kushner's controversial foreign dealings and security clearance issues

"They caught the Saudis talking to each other about how Jared would give them information."

Diplomatic novice. Despite lacking foreign policy experience, Kushner took on a significant role in international relations, particularly in the Middle East. His close relationships with leaders like Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman raised concerns about conflicts of interest and national security.

Security clearance controversy. Kushner's initial security clearance application omitted numerous foreign contacts, leading to multiple revisions and delays in obtaining full clearance. This raised questions about his transparency and suitability for handling classified information.

Problematic interactions:

• Meetings with Russian officials during the transition
• Discussions about establishing back-channel communications with Russia
• Alleged sharing of classified information with Saudi officials

8. Ivanka Trump's carefully crafted public image and business conflicts

"Perception is more important than reality."

Brand building. Ivanka Trump cultivated a public persona as a successful businesswoman and advocate for women's empowerment. This image was carefully maintained through social media, her fashion brand, and strategic public appearances.

Conflicts of interest. Ivanka's continued involvement in her businesses while serving as a White House adviser raised ethical concerns. Notable issues included:

• Receiving Chinese trademarks coinciding with political events
• Promoting her brand through official appearances
• Unclear separation between personal business and government role

Evolving political influence. As a senior adviser to the president, Ivanka attempted to position herself as a moderating influence on her father's policies. However, her effectiveness in this role was often questioned, particularly on issues like climate change and family separation at the border.

9. The couple's tumultuous time in the White House and policy influence

"They talk to you as if they grew up in an ivory tower, which they did—but they have no idea how normal people perceive, understand, intuit."

Broad portfolio, limited experience. Jared and Ivanka were given wide-ranging responsibilities in the White House, from Middle East peace to workforce development. Their lack of government experience and perceived entitlement often led to conflicts with seasoned staff and policy experts.

Key policy areas:

• Middle East peace plan
• Criminal justice reform
• Workforce development and technology initiatives

Internal conflicts. The couple frequently clashed with other White House advisers, particularly Steve Bannon, over policy direction and access to the president. Their presence in the administration was seen by many as a source of instability and competing priorities.

10. Ethical concerns and investigations surrounding Javanka's White House roles

"That would be a felony."

Blurred lines. Jared and Ivanka's simultaneous roles as government officials and business owners raised numerous ethical concerns. Their continued involvement in family businesses while shaping policy led to accusations of using public office for private gain.

Investigations and scrutiny:

• Congressional inquiries into security clearance process
• Probes into Kushner Companies' use of EB-5 visa program
• Examination of foreign business dealings and potential influence on policy

Lasting impact. The ethical questions surrounding Jared and Ivanka's White House tenure have had lasting implications for government ethics policies and public trust in institutions. Their experience serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of nepotism and conflicts of interest in the highest levels of government.

Last updated: July 21, 2024