come on the heels of an admission three years ago, on the part of A360’s predecessor, American Media. At the time, the company admitted to federal prosecutors that it had paid McDougal $150,000 in hush money “in cooperation, consulatation, and concert with” at least one member of Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign. The payment was ultimately characterized as an illegal corporate campaign contribution.
The FEC’s investigation into American Media resulted from a 2018 complaint filed by Washington, D.C. watchdog group Common Cause, which also alleged violations by Trump and his campaign. Thus far, the FEC has taken no action against the former president, who continues to deny involvement in any affairs or pay-offs.
Fined.