Barrack: Worst Nightmare Was Negotiating With Trump

Tom Barrack shares his experiences working with Donald Trump, starting from their first meeting in 1985 during a business transaction involving Alexanders Department Stores. He discusses the acquisition of the Westin Hotel Company and the complexities involved. Barrack describes negotiating with Trump, highlighting Trump's strategic acumen and the development of their friendship and business partnership. He also shares his political views, emphasizing Trump's ability to build consensus and his unique approach to politics.

What was the initial business transaction between the speaker and Donald Trump?

• Purchase of Alexanders Department stores

• Acquisition of the Westin Hotel Company

• Purchase of Hertz

• Sale of Trump Tower

What was the main challenge in selling the Westin Hotel Company's assets?

• Lack of interested buyers

• Complicated ownership and legal issues

• Poor location

• High asking price

How did Donald Trump propose to handle the purchase of the Plaza Hotel?

• By offering a higher price

• Through a handshake deal with no contingencies

• By negotiating a long-term payment plan

• By involving multiple investors

What was the outcome of the handshake deal between the speaker and Donald Trump?

• The deal fell through

• The transaction was successful and led to a friendship

• The speaker was fired

• The hotel was sold to another buyer

How does the speaker describe his political stance?

• Strongly Republican

• Apathetic towards politics

• Strongly Democratic

• Non-political and focused on individual merit

What does the speaker admire about Donald Trump's approach?

• His ability to build consensus and achieve goals

• His strict adherence to political norms

• His reluctance to take risks

• His focus on social issues

How does the speaker view the political candidates mentioned?

• As generally incompetent

• As highly capable and accomplished

• As lacking in experience

• As overly aggressive