Trump 'Has Sociopathic Tendencies' Says 'Art Of the Deal' Ghostwriter In a compelling segment from the Majority Report, Tony Schwartz, the ghostwriter of Donald Trump's bestselling book, "The Art of the Deal," expressed significant regret over his collaboration with Trump. During an interview with George Stephanopoulos on
Good Morning America, Schwartz discussed how he now perceives the impact of his work on Trump's rise to political power.
Key Insights and Reflection
Schwartz revealed that when he co-authored the book, he never anticipated that Trump would run for president, saying, "I never in a million years thought he would run for president." Reflecting on his role, he views it as a critical moral crossroads that he wishes he had navigated differently. He starkly highlighted a sense of civic responsibility, stating that he now feels duty-bound to speak out against Trump’s actions, having donated his royalties to nonprofit organizations defending marginalized groups.
Sociopathic Tendencies The conversation took a serious turn as Schwartz characterized Trump's behavior, claiming, "this is a man who has more sociopathic tendencies than any candidate in my adult life that I've observed." He recounts instances during the writing process where Trump exaggerated his successes, particularly regarding his casinos, which, at the time, were actually floundering financially. Schwartz expressed dismay at the myriad falsehoods in the book, asserting that while he may have portrayed Trump's life positively, it was far from the reality.
A Cautionary Tale
Schwartz's reflections serve as a cautionary tale for writers and creators. He advises caution when deciding to lend one's voice to a figure like Trump, recognizing that such a decision could contribute to the election of someone he considers dangerous. His candid expressions raise broader questions about authenticity in the narratives that shape public figures and, ultimately, public policy.
Community Engagement
What are your thoughts on Schwartz’s reflections about Trump? Do you think the media has a responsibility in shaping the narratives of political figures? Share your insights and experiences on this topic with the community! This clip resonates deeply today, not just as a commentary on Trump, but on the relationships between authors, celebrities, and the influential narratives that guide political landscapes. What do you think about the ethical implications of ghostwriting? Let's discuss!