Amid the bitter winds and the restless grey waters of the North Sea, the stunning sand dunes along Scotland’s northeastern coast have become a cherished destination for Donald Trump. In 2023, during a New York civil fraud trial, he hinted at plans to enhance his property at Balmedie, Aberdeenshire, remarking, “At some point, maybe in my very old age, I’ll go there and do the most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen.”
Now, at 79 years old and with aspirations rekindled during his tenure back at the White House, Trump arrived in Scotland on a visit coinciding with the anticipated opening of a new golf course named after him on August 13. Throughout his stay until Tuesday, he intends to engage with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on trade matters.
The Aberdeen region boasts Trump’s existing Trump International Scotland course, while he is also visiting the Turnberry course located approximately 320 kilometres away on Scotland’s southwestern coast. Trump announced that his son, Eric, will participate in the course’s inaugural ribbon-cutting during their trip. Eric previously accompanied his father at the project’s groundbreaking in 2023.
This overseas expedition showcases Trump’s growing comfort in integrating his political and business interests, especially by leveraging the vast publicity surrounding presidential trips to endorse his family’s golf ventures. The White House has downplayed concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest, arguing that Trump’s business acumen appeals to voters. White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers described the visit as a “working trip”, asserting that Trump has developed world-class golf facilities sought after for prestigious competitions.
This visit marks a shift, as Trump’s latest golf course actively sells tee times, contrasting with his earlier trip in 2018 when he played at Turnberry en route to a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Critics, however, argue that Trump’s business dealings are becoming increasingly intertwined with his presidential role.
Trump’s existing golf course in Aberdeenshire has faced challenges, including legal battles and accusations of environmental harm to surrounding sand dunes. A civil case against him alleged he inflated his wealth for loans, resulting in significant financial penalties.
Despite controversies, Trump’s trips to Scotland are not unprecedented for a sitting U.S. president. Several past presidents have enjoyed the Scottish courses, akin to the historical roots of golf in Scotland dating back to the Middle Ages. The fascination with golf persists in the White House, with previous presidents, including Eisenhower and Obama, incorporating the sport into their governance.
Overall, while Trump’s visit aligns with his family’s business interests, it also integrates the long-standing relationship between the U.S. presidency and the sport of golf, a pastime that has seen notable overlap throughout history.