ProPublica raises conflict questions over Trump Arctic adviser’s business and Russia ties

ProPublica has raised questions about the business interests and foreign-policy advocacy of Thomas Dans, chair of the US Arctic Research Commission, a body that advises Congress and the president on Arctic science and policy.

Dans has publicly supported keeping US control of Greenland as an option and urged improved relations with Russia, including dialogue on Arctic research. ProPublica reported that he planned to travel to Moscow to discuss cooperation, but the trip did not occur.

The investigation also examined Dans’ relationship with Dutch shipbuilder Damen. While his consultancy was working to help Damen secure a US icebreaker contract, Dans promoted the company at public events, including one where he identified himself as working for Damen outside his commission role. Damen later terminated an agreement that would have paid him if it secured an icebreaker contract.

An attorney cited by ProPublica said Dans’ advocacy could raise questions about whether he should have registered as a lobbyist or foreign agent. Records show he had not done so, but the report does not establish that registration was legally required or that he breached any law.

The commission’s members are not considered federal employees and are not required to file standard ethics disclosures. ProPublica said that arrangement gives Dans access to government information while leaving the extent of his current business interests unclear, including the status of a previously reported investment in a company operating Papa Johns restaurants in Russia.

The report does not establish that Dans improperly used confidential government information or influenced a specific contract. A White House spokesperson defended his appointment and said his consulting work did not constitute a conflict of interest. Dans declined interview requests and did not respond to ProPublica’s written questions.