Ghostwriter Insights: Trump's Business Concerns "Never Lasted Long" In a revealing interview on CBSN’s "Red & Blue," Charles Leerhsen, who ghostwrote for Donald Trump during his early business years, shared fascinating insights into Trump’s approach to business his financial troubles. The conversation primarily revolved around Trump’s apparent lack of concern regarding his mounting debts, even as he faced a staggering loss of over a billion dollars, as reported by The New York Times.
Key Takeaways from the Interview
Trump's Business Persona
Charles Leerhsen described his time with Trump during what he called the "King Midas period" (1988-1990), a time when Trump seemed to succeed in every venture he pursued. Leerhsen mentioned that Trump's public image stemmed from his first book,
The Art of the Deal, which crafted the myth of Trump as a golden boy in business. Notably, this illusion started fading as Trump’s actual business dealings began to unravel.
Reaction to Financial Struggles
While Trump projected an image of confidence, Leerhsen noted that he often compartmentalized troubling news. When informed about daily win-loss figures from his casinos, which were usually disappointing, Trump’s reaction was minimal—displaying frustration only momentarily before moving on to less pressing matters, like reviewing fabric swatches for his hotels. This behavior highlighted Trump's tendency to focus on manageable details rather than the broader financial health of his enterprises, leading to questions about who was truly steering the ship in his businesses.
Support from Financial Institutions
Leerhsen also pointed out that unlike ordinary individuals facing foreclosure, Trump’s financial backers—namely banks—were often willing to support him through crises, further insulating him from the consequences of his failures. This pattern of reliance on external support played a crucial role in his ability to bounce back from significant losses.
Comparisons to Political Landscape
The interview drew parallels between Trump’s business practices and his approach to politics, suggesting that his inadequate management skills extended from his businesses to his presidency. Just as he appeared unaware of the complexities of running a country, his early signs of political ambition seemed brushed aside. Leerhsen illustrated how Trump, although discussed as a potential candidate, never seriously contemplated a run for president during their time working together.
Conclusion
Leerhsen's reflections offer an eye-opening perspective on Trump's character during a transformative period in his career. These insights are particularly relevant today as discussions continue around Trump’s financial acumen and political strategies.
Feel free to share your thoughts! How do you think Trump's early business experiences shaped his approach to leadership later on? Do you have any anecdotes or additional insights about business strategies that relate?
