Former President Donald Trump announced Friday that his administration plans to investigate billionaire George Soros and members of his family for potential racketeering charges under the federal RICO statute. In an interview on Fox & Friends, Trump stated, “We’re going to look into Soros,” suggesting that the activities of Soros and others may qualify as part of a “criminal enterprise.” The comments reflect a long-standing conservative accusation that Soros funds disruptive political protests in the U.S.
The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) is typically used to prosecute organized crime, requiring a demonstrated pattern of criminal behavior connected to an enterprise. Trump argued that certain protests and civil unrest allegedly funded by Soros go beyond peaceful demonstration, calling them “riots on the street.” He also claimed that protesters are being financially supported in a professional capacity by Soros and similar donors.
Trump linked the renewed focus on Soros to the recent assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, calling the killing “political violence at its worst.” In a video statement, Trump pledged that his administration would investigate all individuals and organizations connected to such violence. He has also used the incident to further emphasize his law-and-order platform, which has been central to his political messaging ahead of the 2026 midterms.
The Open Society Foundations, which represent Soros’ philanthropic efforts, have denied the accusations. In a previous statement, the organization stated that it does not support or fund violent protests and labeled any threats of prosecution as “outrageous.” George Soros, now 94, has long been involved in funding progressive causes, while his son, Alex Soros, currently chairs the foundation and plays an increasingly visible role in Democratic politics.
This is not the first time Trump has raised the idea of RICO charges against progressive activists or their financial backers. During his first term, Trump’s Justice Department scrutinized some protest groups but did not pursue any major racketeering cases. However, with growing political polarization and concerns over political violence, Trump’s allies argue that financial networks supporting violent actors should be investigated using all available legal tools.
A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to confirm whether any investigation into Soros or his affiliated organizations is currently underway. Trump’s comments reflect a broader strategy to connect political violence with progressive funding sources and to portray his campaign as a bulwark against left-wing unrest in American cities.
