Donald Trump’s love for putting family members in high positions is no secret. One of the most shocking examples is when Trump wanted to make his daughter, Ivanka, the Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN). This role is usually held by someone with decades of experience in international diplomacy, not someone known for running a clothing line. Trump’s idea that Ivanka could handle this job shows just how far his nepotism goes.
During an event with the far-right Moms for Liberty group, Trump proudly spoke about his daughter’s supposed qualifications. He said,
“Ivanka was great. She could’ve done anything. Great student. Beautiful girl. Beautiful everything. She’s a perfect person.”
He even mentioned how he wanted her to be the “United Nations secretary,” although he didn’t seem to understand that this position, known as the Secretary-General, is chosen by the UN General Assembly, not the U.S. President.
Trump claims he wanted to appoint Ivanka to be ‘United Nations Secretary’
“Ivanka was great. She could’ve done anything. Great student. Beautiful girl. Beautiful everything. She’s a perfect person.”pic.twitter.com/T8Mc4fK7X9
— Republicans against Trump (@RpsAgainstTrump) August 31, 2024
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This isn’t the first time Trump has tried to place Ivanka in a role for which she was unqualified. In 2019, he told The Atlantic that he considered making her the president of the World Bank because “she’s very good with numbers.” The World Bank is responsible for tackling global poverty and requires someone with deep knowledge of economics and international development. Ivanka’s main experience was advising her father in the White House, not handling global financial issues.
Research shows that nepotism—favoring family members for important jobs—can lead to poor decision-making and harm to institutions. For example, during Trump’s presidency, both Ivanka and her husband, Jared Kushner, held significant roles despite lacking the necessary experience. Kushner was tasked with negotiating peace in the Middle East, a job traditionally handled by experienced diplomats, not real estate developers. This move received widespread criticism, with experts pointing out that Kushner’s inexperience made him ill-suited for the task.
Hafsa Mushtaq, a Twitter user, summed up the frustration many people feel about Trump’s approach: “Nepotism at its finest! Trump’s statement is a stark reminder of his tendency to prioritize family interests over qualifications and merit. The UN Secretary role requires diplomatic expertise, not just a ‘beautiful everything.’” This tweet reflects the serious concerns about how Trump’s nepotism could weaken important global institutions.
Nepotism at its finest! Trump’s statement is a stark reminder of his tendency to prioritize family interests over qualifications and merit. The UN Secretary role requires diplomatic expertise, not just a “beautiful everything”. Let’s hope for a future where appointments are based…
— Hafsa Mushtaq (@hafsamushtaq54) August 31, 2024
Trump’s obsession with Ivanka’s looks is another disturbing aspect. He often praises her beauty rather than her abilities, which raises uncomfortable questions about his priorities. Michael D Kerrigan tweeted, “Does #Trump think his daughter beautiful because he spent a fortune on her cosmetic surgery? Or is it because he views her as an extension of himself?” This focus on Ivanka’s appearance distracts from the serious discussion about her lack of qualifications.
Does #Trump think his daughter beautiful because he spent a fortune on her cosmetic surgery? Or is it because he views her as an extension of himself?
— Michael D Kerrigan (@kerrigan_MD) August 31, 2024
Nepotism in government is not just unfair; it’s dangerous. Leaders should be chosen for their skills and experience, not because they are related to the president. This kind of favoritism can lead to poor leadership and bad decisions that affect millions of people. As another Twitter user, Ron, said, “Nepotism has no place in America. Trump wants to appoint incompetent family members and fire experts. This man should never be our president again.”
Nepotism has no place in America. Trump wants to appoint incompetent family members and fire experts. This man should never be our president again.
— Ron🇺🇲 (@Ronxyz00) August 31, 2024
So, why would Trump want Ivanka as UN Secretary-General? She’s great at fashion, but leading the world? That requires real experience, not just family ties. Trump’s idea shows he cares more about nepotism than qualifications. Shouldn’t important jobs go to people who actually know what they’re doing?
Featured image via Screengrab