Trump's name is all over New York City. Other cities too. Always knew what he wanted to do, always made it happen whether it was buildings or cute models. The NYC tabloids took to referring to him as "The Donald" for good reason. Larger than life, glitzy big shot, tough guy too, and a bully. But capable of being big-hearted, warm, and charming. Tony Soprano with big hair.
To build big buildings and developments in NYC you need to learn how to be part Jewish (the money guys and lawyers in real estate) and part Sicilian mobster (the unions). Then you have to learn to bully and manipulate the devious and corrupt politicians. It's complex, and few can do it. And Trump was a WASP, which could have been a serious handicap.
Like mob guys, Trump talks tough and takes what he wants, but he has some sense of honor (the mob kind, the ruthless somewhat sociopathic kind which is also common in politicians). Loyalty and respect are all. Precision with truth not such a big deal, which does fit in well with politics.
Trump, I believe, holds career politicians and their mobster cousins in contempt. Elected to rock the boat and shake things up. I wanted that. Career pols are timid, follow the herd, and worry about their pensions.
Donald Trump’s Mafia Mind-Set - Listening to a legendary American mobster and hearing the president of the United States
