The Trump Organization
Overview
The Trump Organization is a group of about 500 business entities of which Donald Trump is the sole or principal owner. Around 250 entities use the Trump name. The organization was established in 1927 by Donald Trump's paternal grandmother, Elizabeth Christ Trump, and his father, Fred Trump, as E. Trump & Son. Donald Trump began leading it in 1971, renamed it around 1973, and handed off its leadership to his sons Donald Jr. and Eric in January 2017.
History
The Trump Organization, originally named E. Trump & Son, was founded in 1927 by Donald Trump's paternal grandmother, Elizabeth Christ Trump, and his father, Fred Trump. The company was primarily active in the New York boroughs of Queens and Brooklyn. Fred Trump built single-family houses in Queens, barracks and garden apartments for U.S. Navy personnel near major shipyards along the East Coast, and more than 27,000 apartments in New York City.
Donald Trump joined his father's company around 1968 and took control in 1971, renaming it The Trump Organization. During his period, the company built or renovated several skyscrapers, hotels, casinos, and golf courses. Trump later started various side ventures, mostly by licensing his name.
Business Operations
The Trump Organization encompasses Donald Trump's business ventures and investments. It includes a variety of businesses including real estate, construction, hospitality, and entertainment companies. The organization has significant interests in real estate across the U.S. and internationally, with properties in countries such as India, Uruguay, and the Philippines.
The organization's real estate holdings include Trump Tower in New York City, Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, and the Trump International Hotel in Washington, D.C. The company also owns and operates several golf courses and resorts in the U.S. and around the world.
The Trump Organization has also been involved in a variety of other business operations, including the development of condominiums, the operation of hotels, and the licensing of the Trump name for various products and properties.
Controversies
The Trump Organization has been the subject of numerous controversies and investigations. These have included allegations of racial discrimination, business fraud, and violations of the Constitution's Emoluments Clause. The organization has also been criticized for its lack of transparency, particularly regarding its financial dealings and potential conflicts of interest.
Current Status
Since Donald Trump assumed the presidency of the United States in January 2017, the Trump Organization has been managed by his sons Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump. Donald Trump retains his financial stake in the business, despite calls for him to divest his holdings to avoid potential conflicts of interest.