Commander in Cheat summary

The Trumpian Game of Golf

In Commander in Cheat, Rick Reilly digs deep into the world of golf to reveal a side of Donald Trump that few have seen. The book begins by exploring the President's lifelong relationship with golf, a sport he loves and fiercely competes in. Reilly, a renowned sports writer, recounts his personal experiences playing golf with Trump and the numerous stories he has collected from professional golfers, caddies, and other individuals who have witnessed Trump's game up close.

Reilly introduces the concept of the 'Trump Bump', a term that refers to the President's habit of adjusting his scores to make them more favorable. According to various sources, Trump has a long history of cheating on the golf course. He is known to move his ball to a more favorable position, take mulligans (do-overs), and even kick his opponents' balls into the rough. His behavior, Reilly argues, is not just a matter of winning a game; it reflects a pattern of dishonesty and self-aggrandizement that extends to other aspects of his life.

Trump's Course Management

As the book progresses, Reilly delves into Trump's management of his many golf courses. He describes how the President has a penchant for exaggeration, often claiming that his courses are the best in the world, despite evidence to the contrary. Reilly also highlights how Trump has a history of disputes with his golfing neighbors, often using his power and influence to bend rules and regulations in his favor.

Furthermore, the author explores the financial side of Trump's golf empire. According to Reilly, the President often inflates the value of his golf properties, a practice that has raised eyebrows among financial experts. Additionally, Trump's golf courses have been the subject of numerous lawsuits, with allegations ranging from environmental damage to unfair business practices. Reilly argues that these legal battles are indicative of Trump's willingness to bend the rules to suit his own interests.

Trump's Golf Diplomacy

Reilly also discusses Trump's use of golf as a tool for diplomacy. The President has played golf with a number of world leaders, including Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Chinese President Xi Jinping, using the game as a way to build relationships and conduct informal negotiations. However, Reilly argues that Trump's approach to golf diplomacy is often more about showmanship than substance, and that his behavior on the course can be seen as a reflection of his broader approach to international relations.

In conclusion, Commander in Cheat presents a scathing portrayal of Donald Trump's relationship with golf. Reilly argues that Trump's behavior on the golf course is not just a matter of personal integrity, but a reflection of his character and leadership style. By exploring Trump's golfing habits and business practices, the book provides a unique lens through which to understand the President's approach to power and success.