Democratic senators criticize Trump on Chinese trademarks

SHANGHAI (AP) — Democratic senators are protesting the Trump Organization's acceptance of a valuable trademark from the Chinese government without asking Congress first if doing so is constitutional.

If you continue to refuse to request and receive congressional approval before accepting favors from foreign governments, we will be unable to serve our constitutional role.

Critics say the trademark award violates the emoluments clause of the U.S. Constitution, which bars public servants from accepting anything of value from foreign states unless approved by Congress.

"At a time when the United States has pressing economic, diplomatic and security concerns at play in our relationship with the People's Republic of China, the possibility that the Government of China is seeking to win President Trump's favor by granting him special treatment for his businesses is disturbing," said the letter to Tillerson, also signed by Sens.