While having coffee with a friend (30-something) this evening, I realized that a lot of people weren't around for Trump's pre-Apprentice days. That is to say, yes, I am old. So my astute friend (writer, former magazine editor, well-read) learns about 20th C. Donald Trump. Just the facts, ma'am.
I first remember The Donald (which is what he wished to be called) from the 1980s. His money, good looks and flamboyance, along with his beautiful and smart wife, Ivana, garnered a lot of attention.
When he and Ivana divorced and he married his very-public mistress, Marla Maples, the TV tabloids (which were the new big deal - infotainment was HOT) covered it all. "The Donald" was famous, and controversial. Ivana was not the shamed housewife. Oh no, she was treated as the equal she was - and Trump gave her that credit. At least, like many politicians *cough, cough*Kennedy*cough*Clinton*cough, cough*, he gave lip service to his wife. And her share of the fortune she helped him build.
Truth be told, he traded in for a newer model. Marla was his middle age crisis. *shrugs*
His story continues in true dramatic fashion, as he loses the empire he built from his inherited $Millions. Undaunted, Trump gets his deals on, and makes his way back to the 'top'. His keen business sense leads him to capitalize on the 21st Century reality TV trend, and he has a smash hit show with The Apprentice. You're fired! Yes, the first few seasons were entertaining - good television. Once again, Trump's name is on everyone's lips.
Oh, somewhere along the way, he traded in again, with a 3rd young wife (I've never seen her name in print, and won't attempt to spell it), 'M'. So, my conclusions are: he likes his women young, loves the spotlight, and knows how to make money.
His public and vicious verbal brawls with celebs like Rosie O'Donnell, evidence the amount of 'class' he has, as does his ability to discard his wife every 10 or 15 years, and buy himself a new one.
That's *always* been my opinion of The Donald. Since the 1980s, he's played the press, and in an undignified fashion. He's ruthless. You may think that is an admirable quality in someone who purports to be a 'world leader', and I may, in fact, agree. But where is the diplomacy? Where is the statesmanship?
An excerpt from an article in The Washington Post, March 11, 2016:
Trump supporter charged after sucker-punching protester at North Carolina rally
Trump himself has not been quick to criticize the violence. After a fight erupted between protesters and police last year in Birmingham, Trump said: “‘Maybe he should have been roughed up.”
Of a protester in Nevada last month, Trump said: “I’d like to punch him in the face.”
In Kentucky, he said: “Get him out. Try not to hurt him. If you do I’ll defend you in court. … Are Trump rallies the most fun? We’re having a good time.”
According to CBS New York, he referred to an incident at a New Hampshire rally where a protester started “swinging and punching.” Trump said some people in the audience “took him out.”
“It was really amazing to watch,” he said.
VI, the video you posted is shocking - feels like the 60s. Especially after reading the Post article.
"Tin soldiers and Nixon coming, We're finally on our own. This summer I hear the drumming, Four dead in Ohio."
May you live in interesting times, is the curse that comes to mind. : (
