Donald’s code of silence

WASHINGTON: Just hours after his public firing, Donald Trump’s longtime campaign manager Corey Lewandowski spoke only glowingly of his former boss, deflecting any question about the dysfunction inside the Republican campaign.

That’s not surprising. Trump demands control over what his staff can say – even if they’re fired – and speaking out can mean getting sued.

In his businesses and presidential campaign, Trump requires nearly everyone to sign legally binding non-disclosure agreements prohibiting them from releasing any confidential or disparaging information about the real estate mogul, his family or his companies. Those subject to confidentiality agreements include senior advisers like Lewandowski, campaign volunteers and even a maker of his famous “Make America Great Again” hats.

The practice is also something Trump says he would consider requiring in the White House, raising concerns about government transparency and freedom of information laws.

According to a Trump non-disclosure agreement, the celebrity billionaire has broad discretion over what could constitute a breach of confidentiality.

Employees are restricted from disclosing information “of a private, proprietary or confidential nature or that Trump insists remain private or confidential”, according to the document.

It also requires them to return or destroy copies of any confidential information upon request. The agreement is binding during employment and “and at all times thereafter”. – AP