A core part of how kleptocracies work is handing out favors to supporters in exchange for loyalty. Sometimes, officials simply steal from public funds, referred to as "embezzlement." It is not clear that the Trump administration has stolen directly from the public. Instead, they have handed out gifts, contracts, and subsidies to loyal supporters.
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Cronyism and favoritism
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A core part of how kleptocracies work is handing out favors to supporters in exchange for loyalty. Sometimes, officials simply steal from public funds, referred to as "embezzlement." It is not clear that the Trump administration has stolen directly from the public. Instead, they have handed out gifts, contracts, and subsidies to loyal supporters.