Variety | Jeff Bezos Defends ‘Melania’ Documentary as a ‘Very Good Business Decision,’ Denies It Was a ‘Way of Buying Influence’ With Trump Administration by Todd Spangler AI generated summary, Read the full article for complete information. Jeff Bezos told CNBC that Amazon MGM Studios’ $40 million purchase and $35 million marketing spend on the “Melania” documentary was a straightforward business decision—not an attempt to buy influence with the Trump administration—and he denied any personal involvement in the deal. He said the film performed well in theaters and on streaming, despite grossing only about $16.6 million worldwide, and dismissed claims that the acquisition was a “bribery” scheme. Democratic lawmakers, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren, have criticized the deal as an over‑priced, pay‑to‑play arrangement, noting Amazon’s offer was $26 million above Disney’s and urging an investigation under federal anti‑bribery law. Amazon’s vice‑president of public policy responded that the film was licensed after a competitive bidding process because of its cultural and historical relevance, not for political purposes. Read more: https://variety.com/2026/film/news/jeff-bezos-defends-melania-documentary-influence-trump-1236754971/ #JeffBezos #ElizabethWarren #Trumpadministration #AmazonMGM #HankJohnson #BrianHuseman