Donald Trump abstained from alcohol after a major turning point in his life. The 78-year-old is one of the many Presidents who decided to quit drinking for good. Trump, who is otherwise known to consume unhealthy amounts of junk food, hasn’t had a drink in years because of a very personal reason.
Trump, who is going to be turning 79 next month, has previously acknowledged how his decision to swear off alcohol is “one of [his] only good traits.” Pew Research Center reveals how two-thirds of the American population drinks alcohol.
Trump’s decision to quit makes him a part of the minority.
Donald Trump’s decision to quit came following the death of his brother, Frederick Crist Trump Jr. Frederick was the President’s older brother, who tragically passed away due to alcoholism.
“I had a brother, Fred. Great guy, best-looking guy, best personality, much better than mine,” Trump spoke fondly during a 2018 press conference. He went on to note how his brother “had a problem.” Trump recalled his brother’s warnings, “He would tell me, ‘Don’t drink. Don’t drink.’ He was substantially older.”
Families across the country are affected by substance abuse, and President Trump’s was no different.
“[My brother Fred] had an addiction to alcohol . . . a very tough thing for our family.” The President is working with @ONDCP to create Drug-Free and safe communities for all. pic.twitter.com/zrdTpRFOKj
— The White House 45 Archived (@WhiteHouse45) August 29, 2018
The President shared how he eventually quit drinking to respect his brother and his wishes. Trump opened up about his brother’s battle with alcoholism in an interview with The Washington Post. He recalled how handsome his older brother was and what alcohol did to him “physically” left an impact on him. “Let’s say I started drinking, it’s very possible I wouldn’t be talking to you right now,” he admitted.
Surprisingly, Donald Trump isn’t one presidents in the long list of Presidents who decided to turn sober. George W Bush reportedly made a resolution on his birthday to quit drinking for good.
Joe Biden has also previously addressed how there are “enough alcoholics in [his] family.” Hence, the former President revealed in 2008 how he made the decision never to drink a beer or even a cocktail.
Donald Trump opens up about his Brother Fred and his Alcohol Addiction
He talks about his struggles, his favorite memories, and the most important lesson his brother taught him — No Drugs, No Drinking, and Don’t Smoke!
“It’s good to talk about it is because if it helps other… pic.twitter.com/fPdzmruUmd
— MJTruthUltra (@MJTruthUltra) August 21, 2024
“As they’re downing scotches, he’d be downing Diet Cokes,” American journalist Gwenda Blair noted. She went on to add how the businessman who has built an empire is “ultracompetitive” in nature. Blair pointed out how Trump’s high school coach had labelled him as the “most coachable kid.” The journalist added, “Unlike most kids, Donald remembered what he needed to win.”
Gwenda seemed to be referencing Trump’s willingness to endorse a vodka brand in the past, regardless of his aversion to alcohol. The President’s personal beliefs evidently do not transfer to his professional endeavors. The President’s hotels and resorts all serve alcohol to guests.
