Latest biography titled “Apprentice in Wonderland,” Variety Co-Editor Ramin Setoodeh dives deep into the post-presidential psyche of Donald Trump, shedding light on his complex emotions and perceptions after leaving the White House.
During a recent appearance on “The Source” with CNN’s Kaitlan Collins, Setoodeh shared insights from his personal interactions and interviews with Trump, revealing a man grappling with conflicting emotions and a sense of deflation. Despite the passage of time, Trump maintained his belief in the falsehood of winning the 2020 election, which colored much of their discussions.
One intriguing revelation from Setoodeh’s encounters was Trump’s ongoing attachment to his former reality TV show, “The Apprentice.” Trump found solace in reminiscing about the show, brightening his mood whenever it was discussed.
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However, a notable shift in Trump’s demeanor occurred when conversations turned to his presidency. Trump became gloomy and resentful, particularly when reflecting on his time in office, highlighting the psychological complexity of his post-presidential identity.
One striking aspect was Trump’s apparent belief in retaining some form of foreign policy authority even after leaving office. Setoodeh recalled an incident where Trump mentioned needing to “deal with Afghanistan,” suggesting a perceived ongoing relevance in international affairs.
Trump’s deep-seated connection to his media persona was also evident, with a focus on television ratings and nostalgia for his pre-political career, as seen through framed Nielsen ratings from “The Apprentice.”
Setoodeh’s biography offers a nuanced exploration of Trump’s post-presidential narrative, revealing the complexities of power, identity, and legacy in the aftermath of the White House. It provides a window into the psyche of a former president navigating an unprecedented transition, marked by defiance, nostalgia, and lingering aspirations.
“Apprentice in Wonderland” promises to shed light on the personal and psychological dimensions of one of America’s most polarizing political figures, capturing a pivotal moment in Trump’s journey beyond the presidency.
