Oppps

**Yes, the core claim in the MSNBC video thumbnail and title is based on real reporting, but the story is highly contested and unresolved.**

In September 2025, **MSNBC broke a story** (later corroborated by outlets like The New York Times, Reuters, Politico, The Guardian, ABC News, and others) alleging that in September 2024, undercover FBI agents—posing as business executives seeking border-security contracts—recorded Tom Homan (then a private citizen and Trump ally) accepting **$50,000 in cash** (reportedly in a Cava restaurant takeout bag) after he indicated he could help steer future government contracts in a potential second Trump administration.

The investigation began under the Biden administration, stemmed from a separate probe, and reportedly involved audio/video evidence and internal DOJ documents. Prosecutors considered charges like conspiracy to commit bribery but planned to monitor whether Homan followed through once in office.

After Trump's inauguration in 2025, the probe was quickly closed by Trump-appointed officials (including FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy AG Todd Blanche), who stated there was **"no credible evidence of criminal wrongdoing"** and called it a politically motivated "deep state" or entrapment effort.

**Tom Homan** has denied wrongdoing, calling reports "bullshit" in some interviews and later stating outright, "I didn't take $50,000 from anybody." The White House initially denied he took the money, then shifted to defending him while acknowledging the probe existed but found nothing illegal. No charges were filed, and Homan remains in his role as "border czar."

Democrats in Congress have demanded release of the recordings, files, and details, alleging a cover-up; the administration has resisted full disclosure. Questions linger about the money's fate (e.g., whether it was recovered or declared as income) and the probe's abrupt end.

The thumbnail mentions "massive corruption in Kristi..." (likely Kristi Noem, DHS Secretary), but that's incomplete/truncated—reporting ties it to broader concerns about border contracting influence, not direct Noem involvement. Some stories note tensions between Homan and Noem over policy/contracts.

In summary: Credible major media reported the FBI sting and cash acceptance based on sources/documents; the Trump administration closed the case without charges and denies criminality. It's a partisan flashpoint with no public resolution or independent verification of the recordings.

Henry McClure  
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