“Trump First”
Donald Trump has long shouted patriotic slogans like “America First.” While the concept of prioritizing the needs of the country you’re elected to run is not outrageous, Trump’s follow-through inevitably is. Trump may claim to be focused on helping America succeed, but his actions reveal a consistent, disturbing pattern of self-serving behavior.
Trump is hosting a private dinner for holders of his meme coin, $TRUMP, this week. A CNBC review of documents from blockchain analytics firm Inca Digital reveals that the top 275 $TRUMP token holders are likely not American citizens, based on the fact they use international exchanges that do not serve U.S. customers. In addition, Bloomberg is reporting that 19 of the top 25 wallets are “almost certainly owned by individuals operating outside the U.S.” This raises serious questions about presidential access and influence, not to mention vetting.
In the meantime, Trump is making headlines in the Middle East where he appears to be busy brokering AI deals with the United Arab Emirates that involve relocating key parts of the growing sector out of the United States. Given the Trump family’s business ties in the region and his insatiable desire for wealth and popularity, it’s not surprising many are questioning whether these moves are in our national interest and whether this is really America First—including people in his own administration, according to a report from the New York Times, referring to Trump as the “Outsourcer in Chief.”
This repeated pattern of Trump firing up his base with catchy populist slogans while quietly plotting to enrich himself at the nation’s expense continues. It’s an America First con that can more accurately be called “Trump First.” This deception may be good for Trump’s wallet, but it’s a betrayal of his duty—and promise—to America.
Ron Leshnower is a lawyer and the author of several books, including President Trump’s Month