A second individual in Trump's orbit, Jacob Engels, has come forward claiming he personally paid Laura Loomer for posts on social media, alleging that the payment was actually for access to the President. Engels, the founder of Command Station Consulting, stated that he paid Loomer "a good amount of cash" earlier this year.
He also claimed that Loomer told him which individuals she was willing to criticize for payment and which ones were off-limits. Engels expressed shame and regret over paying Loomer, stating that he wanted to expose the practice of paying for access to the President.
He alleged that this system of payment is responsible for corruption and poor administrative choices. Engels also claimed that Loomer still has daily conversations with Trump, citing an administration official he spoke with. Another individual, Ari Teman, claimed that Loomer demanded $40,000 from him for two months of posts, which he refused to pay.
Loomer's influence has been significant, with her campaigns reportedly leading to the dismissal of several National Security Council staffers and the head of the NSA. Her critics argue that her access to the President is a problem, given her extreme views and behavior.
Loomer's posts have included extreme statements, such as telling followers to stock up on supplies and finalize their wills after the recent election. Commentators have expressed concern that she has the President's ear, given her behavior and views.