Ivanka Trump not just an 'employee' at White House

President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka Trump will have security clearance, a West Wing office and the ear of her father on important policy matters. But don't call her an employee.

When it comes to government work, "employee" is more than just a word. That designation triggers transparency and ethical provisions, including a law prohibiting conflicts of interest.

Government watchdogs have written a letter to White House counsel Don McGahn expressing concern that she's not been deemed an employee. They are worried that it gives her a loophole if she improperly mingles her government policy roles with her business and financial interests.

The White House insists Ivanka Trump will voluntarily follow employee rules and has already taken steps to separate from her fashion and lifestyle brand. She retains ownership of it.