Behind the Media: My Encounters with Donald Trump and His True Character

Donald Trump is a controversial figure, heavily criticized and praised, and often perceived differently depending on the angle of the lens. From the perspective of a press member in New York during the 90s, the reality is quite stark, and this article aims to reveal first-hand experiences with the man underneath the media portrayal.

First Impressions and Observations

I was fortunate to encounter Donald Trump in various capacities in the early to mid-90s. These interactions ranged from political and personal meetings to more casual encounters. One of the most memorable experiences was when I had the opportunity to step aboard his yacht. The yacht, a notable acquisition from Adnan Koshoggi, was later sold to Ghislain Maxwell’s father, who tragically met an untimely end.

My initial impression of him was one of a sleazy, odious individual. Despite his wealth and fame, he seemed more interested in exploiting those around him. For instance, he participated in a film titled “54.” In this project, he was filmed undergoing a cameo where he instructed a personal agent to approach every model and actress to inquire about their interest in dating him. It was a crass and self-serving act that further solidified my negative view of him.

Challenging the Media Narrative

Contrary to the prevailing media narrative, there are those who have interacted with Donald Trump and have offered a different perspective. For instance, those who claim he is a kind-hearted individual who is not as repugnant as portrayed by the media. However, the truth is not as simple.

As someone who has met him multiple times and observed him in public and private settings, I can confidently say that his public persona does not match his true character. During a keynote speech for a multi-level sales company back in the early 2000s, his presentation was nothing short of self-centered and vacuous. He repeatedly used first-person pronouns like “me,” “I,” and “mine,” and the content of his speech was focused on self-promotion and self-aggrandizement. What stood out most to me was his statement: “When there is blood running in the gutters and the streets are packed with carnage that is when money can be made then you can buy cheap.” This comment was deeply disturbing, reflecting an indifference to human suffering and a deep-seated belief that profit trumps morality.

Conclusion and Lasting Impression

In conclusion, the overlap between the media portrayal and real-life experiences with Donald Trump is sparse at best. While some may find aspects of his public persona reassuring or refreshing, my own encounters paint a clearer picture of a manipulative, egotistical, and callous individual. The enduring image of him that remains is one of heartlessness and self-interest, completely at odds with what the media often portrays.

His words and actions, especially those that reflect his priorities and value systems, paint a picture of someone who prioritizes profit above all else, even at the expense of human life. It's clear that behind the media narrative, the true character of Donald Trump is far more complex and deeply unsettling.