Democratic lawmakers are moving to involve federal regulators in a new business venture tied to President Donald Trump’s family, escalating political pressure as the 2026 election cycle approaches.
A group of Democrats has formally requested that the Federal Trade Commission review advertising and sales practices connected to Trump Mobile, a wireless service and smartphone project announced earlier this year by President Trump’s sons.
The request was led by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, along with several House and Senate Democrats, who argue that consumers may have been misled by early marketing claims surrounding the company’s upcoming “T1” smartphone.
At issue is the phone’s delayed release and its original promotion as being “Made in the USA.” Customers were asked to place $100 deposits when the device was announced in June, with delivery initially projected for later this year. As of now, the phone has not shipped.
Lawmakers are asking regulators to examine whether those deposits were collected under potentially misleading circumstances and whether changes to the company’s marketing created confusion for consumers.
Shortly after the launch, references to the phone being manufactured in the United States were removed from Trump Mobile’s website. The language was replaced with a description calling the device an “American-proud design.” However, customer service representatives have continued telling callers that the phone will still be made domestically.
In their letter, Democrats urged the FTC to disclose whether it has opened an inquiry, communicated with Trump-affiliated businesses, or reviewed Trump Mobile’s advertising practices. They wrote that the agency’s response would reflect its commitment to enforcing consumer protection laws.
The request was co-led by Rep. Robert Garcia and signed by several other Democrats, including Sens. Adam Schiff, Chris Van Hollen, and Ed Markey. The FTC declined to comment on the matter.
Trump Mobile was unveiled in June at Trump Tower by Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump. The venture includes mobile service plans and a gold-colored smartphone featuring an American flag design.
According to NBC News, the outlet placed a $100 deposit on the device to monitor its rollout. Call center representatives reportedly provided multiple estimated ship dates that later passed without delivery. Most recently, customers were told the phone is undergoing final certification and testing, with a projected release sometime in early 2026.
Democratic lawmakers have also asked regulators to examine whether the deposit process could be considered a bait-and-switch tactic. Meanwhile, California Gov. Gavin Newsom publicly criticized the project on social media, adding to the political controversy.
Trump Mobile and the Trump Organization did not respond to media inquiries regarding the delays, manufacturing claims, or the request from Democratic lawmakers.
Supporters of President Trump argue the scrutiny reflects a broader pattern of political targeting of Trump-related businesses, while critics say regulators should closely examine any consumer complaints. Whether the FTC takes action remains to be seen.