Trump ally Thomas Barrack pleads not guilty in foreign lobbying case

Washington — Thomas Barrack, a longtime ally of former President Donald Trump who headed up his presidential inaugural committee, pleaded not guilty on Monday to federal charges stemming from his work unlawfully lobbying the Trump administration on behalf of the United Arab Emirates.

Barrack appeared in federal court in Brooklyn for his arraignment, days after he was released from custody on a $250 million bond while he awaits trial. He was arrested last week and faces charges for acting as a foreign agent for the UAE, obstruction of justice and making false statements to the FBI about his dealings. Under the terms of his bail agreement, Barrack must wear an electronic ankle bracelet with GPS monitoring and adhere to a curfew. His travel is restricted to Southern California and parts of New York, where he was charged.