Tamara Keith

including Treasury Secretary Scott Besant, who was questioned by New Jersey Senator Andy Kim.

Good luck with that.

In a separate hearing, the head of the Department of Justice, Attorney General Pam Bondi, didn't shine any additional light.

For Trump, filing lawsuits, including those that are frivolous or where he has little chance of success, has long been standard operating procedure.

In these cases, regardless of the merits, he holds all the cards.

A White House official tells NPR these suits are unfinished business for Trump.

A spokesman for Trump's private legal team said in a statement, quote, President Trump continues to hold those who wrong America and Americans accountable.

But what about the American people, taxpayers, who will be stuck holding the bag if Trump wins large settlements?

I asked the president that during a recent flight on Air Force One.

You're suing the federal government about your taxes.

I'm wondering, is it fair to ask the American people to pay for that?

But that still takes it from the American people.

It's not clear where Trump got that number from, and the White House didn't respond to questions seeking clarity.

At a time when Americans say their top concern is the cost of living and making ends meet,

The idea of the president receiving a massive windfall from the government he leads may not sit well with voters, even if it is donated to charity.

Tamara Keith and Carrie Johnson, NPR News.

Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast.

I'm Tamara Keith.

I cover the White House.

I'm Mara Liason, Senior National Political Correspondent.