Lipton himself works under a policy that precludes gifts of $25+, to avoid the appearance of conflict, regardless of "quid pro quo." For example, he would not be allowed to receive a jet from the Qatari government, because it is valued at more than $25.
Corruption requires explict quid pro quo. It is not corrupt to take an action that aligns with the interest of a person who gives you a gift, unless the official action was in direct response to that gift--a bribe. Terms matter. Accuracy and fairness matters. Regardless of what social media wants.
May 12, 2025 17:41MANY businesses follow such a policy. At my previous employer we couldn't receive any personal gift over $50.
