Introduction
Before Donald Trump's historic presidency, he sought to gain acceptance among New York City's most elite for decades. Though he saw success in some ventures, his journey to be recognized by the city's social and political elite was marked with a series of missteps and criticisms. From the beginning of his career until his ultimate failure as President, his standing among the city's elite remained tenuous at best.
The Early Struggles
The road to becoming a figure of influence in New York City was not smooth for Donald Trump. Even before the inception of The Apprentice, his attempts to be accepted as one of the city's elite were met with skepticism and ridicule. In the early 2000s, a walking tour conducted in Midtown with a highly influential friend in hospitality revealed a series of buildings that Trump owned and sold at a loss, further highlighting his questionable business acumen.
униcited Negatives and Cynicism
Speculation and disdain abounded in the city. Figures such as Rudy Giuliani, a prominent Republican mayor, were not the only ones who did not take Trump seriously. The popular NY Post, at times, was no friend to the businessman. An article from the paper cited Trump's need for attention, noting his planned fundraiser in Minnesota and the need for a "twice-divorced philanderer" to prop up the coffers of a former wrestler.
Despite the media coverage, Trump's own community seemed to be less than impressed. His notoriety was partly due to his business failures and claims that have since been debunked. His assertion that from his window, he could see Muslims "dancing in the streets" in New Jersey on 9/11 was a claim that showcased his lack of credibility. Using one's logical acumen to identify a car would have required a substantial telescope, let alone a discerning eye from a skyscraper.
Political Aspirations and Demise
When it came to political aspirations, Trump was met with a similar fate. In the 2020 presidential election, the result in New York City was a resounding victory for Joe Biden, with 2.3 million votes compared to Trump's 700,000. This was a clear indication that the city's elite and residents had not fully embraced him.
Initially, politics played a role in Trump's early attempts to gain acceptance. At the time, he was registered as a Democrat, a move that further marginalized him among those who viewed him as a(usuario)n outsider. The "elite" of New York, including the rest of the city, did not offer the "courtesy" of ignoring him; rather, they paid less attention to him than to mere mortals.
The Infamous Misdeeds and Business Failures
Trump's business failures were also a significant factor in his failure to win acceptance. One of the most notorious aspects of his business dealings was his poor management of contractors' payments. He has been accused of not paying his employees and contractors, which has left a lasting impact on his reputation. Additionally, his personal and professional conduct, such as his multiple marriages and alleged womanizing, did not endear him to the city's elite.
As the years wore on, the term 'sleazy businessman' became synonymous with Trump. His fame, fueled by such claims, only perpetuated negative perceptions. Even when he was fired from his position as the Resident of the United States, the mocking and criticism remained.
Conclusion
In the pursuit of acceptance and respect among New York City's elite, Donald Trump faced numerous obstacles and widespread disdain. His failures in both business and politics, coupled with his questionable actions, ensured that he would never gain the acceptance he sought. His legacy in New York City remains one of controversy and failed ambitions.