Confidence Man

More about the book

From a Pulitzer-Prize-winning New York Times reporter who has uniquely defined Donald J. Trump's presidency comes a profound reckoning that transcends simplistic caricatures. This work chronicles Trump's rise in New York City, his tumultuous post-presidency, and the possibility of his comeback. Few journalists have covered Trump as extensively as Maggie Haberman, who offers deep insights into his motivations and the implications of the Trump phenomenon. Through hundreds of interviews, including multiple discussions with Trump himself, she paints a portrait of a complex figure—capable of kindness yet often resorting to cruelty, pugnacious, insecure, lonely, vindictive, and menacing. Smarter than critics suggest and colder than allies believe, Trump embedded himself in popular culture and laid the groundwork for a presidential run that began 30 years ago, ultimately pushing American democracy to the brink. The narrative of his life and presidency revolves around self-interest and survival. This account also explores the transactional relationships that shaped him, including those with girlfriends, political figures, and business partners. Haberman connects Trump's past behavior to his presidency, creating a definitive account of a consequential era in American political history.