The Bunker – News without the nonsense Art of the deal? How Trump's business myth tricked the world
Oct 29, 2025
Russ Buettner, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist from The New York Times, delves into Donald Trump's financial saga, revealing the truth behind the 'small loan' myth that sparked his empire. He discusses how Trump's father, Fred, secretly funneled hundreds of millions through creative bookkeeping. The conversation touches on Trump's strategic bankruptcies, his mafia-like business tactics, and how his tumultuous finances foreshadowed his political behavior. Buettner also highlights the current financial red flags surrounding Trump, including troubling crypto ties.
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Contractors Squeezed And Sued
- Russ Buettner describes Trump's pattern of hiring vendors then refusing or underpaying them at project end.
- Trump routinely responded "sue me" knowing legal action would be costly and slow for claimants.
Different Business Styles Father Vs Son
- Fred Trump was a precise builder who usually made predicted profits, unlike Donald's hit-or-miss approach.
- Donald prioritized appearance over rigorous financial forecasting, leading to repeated large losses.
Ignored Warning On Taj Mahal
- Marvin Rothman warned the Trump Taj Mahal needed $1m daily to work and was then pushed out by Trump.
- Within six months of opening the casino matched Rothman's prediction and it filed for bankruptcy.
