politics
Justice Dept. Investigating Outside Funding E. Jean Carroll Received for Civil Lawsuits Against Trump, Sources Say
Updated on: May 28, 2026 / 6:48 PM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- The Justice Department is reportedly investigating Reid Hoffman's nonprofit, American Future Republic.
- The nonprofit provided funding for E. Jean Carroll's civil lawsuits against Donald Trump.
- The investigation, led by the U.S. Attorney's Office in Chicago, is reportedly looking into potential money laundering, conspiracy, and obstruction.
- Sources initially suggested the probe focused on possible perjury by Carroll, but later clarified the target is the nonprofit's funding.
- The U.S. Attorney's Office in Chicago has denied opening a criminal investigation into E. Jean Carroll.
- American Future Republic disclosed providing $7 million to Carroll's law firm in 2020.
- Hoffman stated his nonprofit funded the lawsuit after it was filed, to ensure Carroll's voice was heard against a more powerful individual.