President Trump Defends Doral Choice, Dismisses 'Phony Emoluments Clause'

President Donald Trump Meets With His Cabinet At The White House

President Donald Trump was forced to move next year's Group of 7 summit from his Doral resort in Miami, Florida, just days after the announcement. When the decision to host the annual gathering of world leaders was made, it faced sharp criticism from both sides of the aisle. Politicians claimed that hosting the event at Trump's property was a violation of the emoluments clause of the Constitution, which prohibits a president from profiting from his business while in office.

Trump was forced to change course over the weekend and said it would be held at another location. Despite backtracking, Trump is still defending his initial choice. On Monday (October 21), Trump dismissed the "phony emoluments clause," telling reporters there was nothing wrong with hosting the summit at a property he owns.

"Doral was a very simple situation," the president said. "I own a property in Florida. I was going to do it at no cost or give it free if I got a ruling because there is a question as to whether or not you're allowed to give it because it's like a contribution to a country."

He then compared himself to George Washington, saying he also owned a business when he served as America's first president. 

"They actually say that George Washington may have been the only other president to do that," Trump explained. "See whether or not all of the other of your favorites gave up their salary."

While Trump has not announced the new location for the G-7 summit, he lamented the fact that it won't "be as exciting."

Photo: Getty Images


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