Donald Trump reveals opinion of Scotland through Twitter

Donald J. Trump, who will assume office as the 45th President of the United States on January 20, has long viewed social media as the ideal platform to share his often controversial personal opinions.
Donald Trump at Turnberry in Ayrshire, one of two golf courses he owns in Scotland. Picture: John Devlin/TSPLDonald Trump at Turnberry in Ayrshire, one of two golf courses he owns in Scotland. Picture: John Devlin/TSPL
Donald Trump at Turnberry in Ayrshire, one of two golf courses he owns in Scotland. Picture: John Devlin/TSPL

Years before he announced his intention to run for high office, the New Yorker was enthusiastically tweeting his take on current events.

As a result, Trump has built up a unique, easily searchable database of his thoughts, unlike any previous president.

But what do they tell us about his attitude to Scotland?

Donald Trump is a fierce critic of Scotland's windfarm policy. Picture: John Devlin/TSPLDonald Trump is a fierce critic of Scotland's windfarm policy. Picture: John Devlin/TSPL
Donald Trump is a fierce critic of Scotland's windfarm policy. Picture: John Devlin/TSPL
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In fitting with his brash business style, Trump has posted several hundred tweets promoting his golf courses in Aberdeenshire and Ayrshire.

The messages also reveal his fierce opposition to windfarms, his fall-outs with Alex Salmond, and even a spat with a wildlife charity.

On Scotland

“Just arrived in Scotland. Place is going wild over the vote. They took their country back, just like we will take America back. No games!” (Jun 24, 2016)

Donald Trump is a fierce critic of Scotland's windfarm policy. Picture: John Devlin/TSPLDonald Trump is a fierce critic of Scotland's windfarm policy. Picture: John Devlin/TSPL
Donald Trump is a fierce critic of Scotland's windfarm policy. Picture: John Devlin/TSPL

“Scotland is having a virtual revolt over obsolete wind turbines which are driving up energy costs and killing the bird population (and more).” (May 22, 2013)

On Scottish independence

“If Scotland would have gone independent predicated on $100 - $150 oil, they would now be bust! (Jan 21, 2015)

“Good luck to the people of Scotland, whatever their decision may be on Thursday. The whole world is watching—really exciting!” (Sep 15, 2014)

On Alex Salmond

“I have to admit @AlexSalmond is a tough, smart guy. He is formidable by any standard!” (Oct 9, 2014)

“I am convinced that if @AlexSalmond had not pushed ugly wind turbines all over Scotland, the vote would have been much better for him!” (Sep 19, 2014)

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“The people of Scotland have spoken—a great decision. I wish @AlexSalmond well & look forward to playing golf with him at Aberdeen!” (Sep 19, 2014)

“Isn’t it ironic that China is going all in nuclear for energy while at the same time making wind turbines for others. @alexsalmond” (Apr 25, 2014)

“First Minister Salmond should stop his fruitless drive for obsolete wind turbines in Scotland-he would become popular again! @alexsalmond” (Nov 29, 2013)

“@alexsalmond, the same man that released Pan Am terrorist for humane reasons, will destroy Scotland with grotesque turbines! (Nov 28, 2013)

“.@AlexSalmond of Scotland may be the dumbest leader of the free world. I can’t imagine that anyone wants him in office.” (Oct 29, 2013)

On windfarms

“PM @David_Cameron should be run out of office for spending so much of England’s money to subsidize windfarms in Scotland.” (Jul 30, 2014)

“I can’t believe that Prime Minister @David_Cameron is giving massive subsidy to Scotland to destroy itself with windfarms” (Jul 30, 2014)

“@AlexSalmond-I have no doubt that you will come to your senses about the costly, bird killing and very ugly wind turbines dotting Scotland” (Apr 15, 2014)

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“If Scotland doesn’t stop insane policy of obsolete, bird killing wind turbines, country will be destroyed.” (Feb 13, 2014)

“.@Lord_Sugar If you think ugly windmills are good for Scotland you are an even worse businessman than I thought...” (Dec 6, 2012)

On his golf courses

“I am in Scotland checking on my developments in Aberdeen and Turnberry. Just left Ireland, property will be great. ALWAYS CHECKING!” (May 16, 2014)

On RSPB Scotland

“@RSPBScotland RSPB IS A TOTAL JOKE-They went for bird chopping wind turbines in @Aberdeenshire and fought me on bird friendly golf course!” (Nov 28, 2013)

“@RSPBScotland: Thanks to everyone supporting the petition to make the golden #eagle Scotland’s national bird! Being KILLED by wind turbines” (Nov 28, 2013)

On the Scottish media

“Scotland does not have free press, even when you are just stating the facts-it’s crazy” (Apr 24, 2013)

“@EveningExpress Thank you for your fair and balanced reporting. You provide a great and important service to the people of Scotland!” (Nov 16, 2013)