Rahm Emanuel, former Obama chief of staff, strongly criticized the insufficient consequences faced by Wall Street executives following the 2008 financial crisis.
He argued that a failure to hold these individuals accountable fueled public anger and contributed to the rise of populist movements.
Emanuel's recent comments highlight a long-standing debate about the lack of prosecutions and the need for stronger financial regulations.
Currently the US ambassador to Japan, Emanuel is considering a return to US politics, potentially seeking leadership of the Democratic Party.