Key Takeaways:

• Ivanka Trump has opted out of an official role in her father's second administration.
• Jared Kushner continues to advise Trump from Miami during his second term.
• Concerns arise over potential conflicts of interest related to Kushner's investments.
• Bipartisan calls have emerged for investigations into Kushner's activities since leaving office.

As Reuters recently reported, Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner have decided not to take on official roles in the second term of Donald Trump, which begins on January 20. The couple, who previously held significant sway during Trump's first administration, will be residing approximately 1,000 miles away from Washington D.C. at their home in Miami. This distance marks a notable shift in their involvement compared to previous years during which they had direct access to the president and influence over key legislative priorities such as Middle Eastern peace negotiations and COVID-19 vaccine distribution.

Despite stepping back from official capacities, Kushner remains active in advising the Trump administration from a private equity standpoint. He continues to collaborate closely with Trump’s incoming chief of staff, Susie Wiles, engaging in critical discussions and aiding in the selection of new appointees. His involvement is particularly salient concerning Middle Eastern affairs, as he has been advising Steve Witkoff, the newly appointed special envoy to the region, on strategies to enhance U.S.-Saudi relations and broaden the effect of the 2020 Abraham Accords.

Kushner's interest in maintaining a relationship with Middle Eastern leaders has raised eyebrows, sparking discussions about potential conflicts of interest stemming from his private equity firm's investments from Saudi entities, including a notable $2 billion influx. In a political climate fraught with scrutiny, ethical experts have indicated the need for transparency regarding his role given past responsibilities while serving in the White House. Letters have been sent to the U.S. attorney general urging for investigations into Kushner’s actions in relation to his business affiliations while he was involved in shaping U.S. policy towards the Middle East. Kushner, however, has dismissed these allegations as politically motivated distractions, reaffirming that there is no conflict of interest with his investments.

Ivanka Trump, on her part, has expressed a desire to focus on her family and step back from the political limelight. She indicated her plans to support her father solely as his daughter rather than as a political advisor, highlighting her commitment to spending time with her children. Instead of a return to the White House, she has been sharing glimpses of her personal life on social media, showcasing her lifestyle and family activities.

As the Trump administration embarks on a new chapter, the absence of Ivanka and Kushner from official duties marks a significant change. Trusted aides such as Wiles are expected to play a more prominent role, according to political strategists. “Trump has a much more professional operation around him,” noted Republican strategist David Kochel.

Both Kashner and Ivanka Trump have previously managed substantial responsibilities during Trump’s presidency, from negotiating trade agreements to advocating for expanded social programs. Now, their paths diverge as they navigate business and family priorities in an evolving political landscape.

For further details, refer to this South China Morning Post article.