Donald Trump's name ignites heated debate and divides opinions in the business world. Once lauded as a deal-making genius, a mastermind of profitable agreements and intricate negotiations, this image crumbles under closer scrutiny. The truth reveals a pattern of dishonesty, self-interest, and failed ventures, painting a starkly different picture.
The Art of the Illusion
Trump's 1987 book, "The Art of the Deal," portrayed him as a savvy businessman, always winning. However, this success was largely fabricated. He paid ghostwriter Tony Schwartz $250,000 and half the royalties to craft this illusion. Years later, Schwartz expressed regret, calling the book "putting lipstick on a pig" and stating it would be titled "The Sociopath" if written today.
The Façade Crumbles
Recent events expose Trump's true nature: not a deal-maker, but a con artist. His brand, built on the image of business acumen and amassed wealth, hides a reality of bankruptcies, failed ventures, and questionable practices. Numerous reports reveal a financial empire riddled with dishonesty.
From Deals to Fundraising
Trump's political career amplifies his tendency to prioritize fundraising over deal-making. He relies heavily on his loyal base for financial backing, resorting to constant complaints and pleas when faced with legal battles, financial troubles, or public criticism. He exploits his followers' loyalty, soliciting donations for legal defenses and selling branded merchandise. His actions lack the strategic skills of an experienced businessman, replaced by a rhetoric of victimhood and grievance used to extract resources.
The Legacy of the Con
The full extent of Trump's financial dealings may never be fully known, but one thing is undeniable: his legacy as a businessman is more accurately described by "the art of the con" than "the art of the deal." Accusations of fraud, misconduct, and self-serving behavior continue to mount, demanding public awareness of the reality behind the illusion of success.
Examples of Trump's Dubious Ventures
Trump Casino
Trump Casino was a brand name for several casinos in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The first one, Trump Plaza, opened in 1984 and closed in 2014 after years of financial losses. The second one, Harrah's Marina, opened in 1985 and was sold to Landry’s, Inc. in 2011 and rebranded as Golden Nugget Atlantic City. The third one, Trump Taj Mahal, opened in 1990 and was dubbed the “eighth wonder of the world” by Trump, but also faced bankruptcy and lawsuits. It was sold to Hard Rock International in 2017 and rebranded as Hard Rock Hotel and Casino.
Trump Shuttle
It was an airline that operated from 1989 to 1992, offering flights between Boston, New York, and Washington DC. Donald Trump bought it from Eastern Air Lines for $400 million. He wanted to make it a luxury airline, but it failed to attract enough customers and faced financial difficulties. It was eventually sold to US Airways and rebranded as USAir Shuttle.
Trump University
Trump University was a company that offered courses in real estate, entrepreneurship, and wealth creation from 2005 to 2010. The company was sued by several former students and the New York Attorney General for fraud, deceptive practices, and false advertising. In 2016, after Trump was elected, he agreed to pay $25 million to settle the lawsuits
Trump Vodka
Trump Vodka was a failed venture by Drinks Americas and Donald Trump, who launched it in 2006 with the slogan “Success Distilled”. The vodka was mediocre, expensive, and hard to find. It was discontinued in the U.S. in 2011 due to low sales. Trump, who does not drink alcohol, also faced criticism for endorsing the product. Trump Vodka was also sued for various legal issues.
Trump Steaks
Marketed as "the world's greatest steaks" in 2007, they were poorly received due to low quality, high price, and misleading sourcing.
Trump Cards
Launched in 2022, these digital collectibles promised rarity and value but were widely mocked as scams with no intrinsic worth or authenticity.
Trump Sneakers
On February 17, 2024, Trump debuts the sneaker line following a $355 million fraud penalty. The ex-president showed off “Trump Sneakers” at Sneaker Con in Philadelphia. He displayed a pair of gold sneakers, priced at $399 and dubbed the “NEVER SURRENDER HIGH-TOP SNEAKER,” on the podium during his speech.
Conclusion
Donald Trump's journey from celebrated deal-maker to peddler of victimhood and manipulation highlights the need for a critical evaluation of his business endeavors. The narrative of success and prosperity he sells is increasingly overshadowed by a legacy of deception and exploitation.
Don’t let the Trump-Abyss Drag You Down!
Trump-Abyss is a blog that reveals the harmful and hidden truth of Donald Trump, whose actions have disrupted US policies and threatened global stability. Trump has not only failed to address the major challenges facing humanity, but he has also actively worsened them by his actions and words. He has tried to subvert democracy, incite violence, and spread misinformation. He has almost triggered a nuclear war, alienated allies, and emboldened enemies. He has shown a complete lack of respect for the common good and the rule of law.
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