Trump Media & Technology Group has awarded its board members stock grants worth approximately $825,000 each, according to recent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Among the recipients are Kash Patel and Linda McMahon, both of whom have been nominated for key positions in a potential second Trump administration.
The media company, which owns Truth Social, issued nearly 26,000 shares each to its six directors: Patel, McMahon, former U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, Eric Swider, Kyle Green, and Donald Trump Jr. The filings indicate that the stock grants were given as compensation for services rendered since the company went public in March 2024. Patel has been nominated for FBI director, while McMahon is awaiting confirmation as Secretary of Education.
Each director has been granted restricted stock units, with 25% of their shares—valued at over $200,000—immediately available for sale. The remaining 75% will vest in quarterly installments between March 2025 and March 2027.
The announcement coincided with Patel’s contentious Senate confirmation hearing, where he faced scrutiny over past remarks regarding the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.
The stock grants have reignited concerns over potential conflicts of interest within Trump’s business empire. While Trump transferred his controlling stake in Trump Media to a trust managed by Donald Trump Jr., some critics argue that the company’s financial ties to prospective government officials could raise ethical questions.
In addition to the stock awards, Trump Media revealed plans to expand into financial services under a new fintech brand called Truth.Fi. The company is considering investments in cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, as well as financial products focused on American industry and the “Patriot Economy.”
As Trump Media continues to grow its influence in media and finance, the intersection between its business dealings and government appointments remains a topic of close scrutiny.
