Trump’s Scottish Golf Visit Sparks Protests, Political Drama, and More
While President Donald Trump spent his Saturday teeing off on one of his own golf courses along Scotland’s rugged coast, protesters were making their voices heard far and wide across the country. From Edinburgh to Aberdeen and beyond, demonstrators gathered in spirited opposition, blasting Trump’s visit and accusing U.K. leaders of cozying up to the controversial former president.
A Day on the Green — Trump’s Scottish Golf Outing
Trump and his son Eric enjoyed a round of golf near Turnberry, a legendary course the Trump Organization took over in 2014. Joining them was Warren Stephens, the U.S. ambassador to Britain. The setting was picturesque — the rolling Scottish coastline, historic fairways, and tight security keeping the curious and the critics well out of sight.
Clad in black with a crisp white “USA” cap, Trump cruised the course in a golf cart, seemingly at ease despite the political storm swirling around his visit. The scene was calm and contained, a stark contrast to the noisy protests happening just miles away.
Protesters Take to the Streets in Force
Roughly 100 miles from Turnberry, in Scotland’s capital of Edinburgh, hundreds of protesters packed a cobblestone street outside the U.S. Consulate. Makeshift stages hosted speakers who passionately denounced Trump’s presence and blasted British Prime Minister Keir Starmer for negotiating a trade deal that appeared designed to dodge steep U.S. tariffs on goods from the U.K.
This protest wasn’t just a one-off event. Across multiple Scottish cities, groups opposing Trump formed a loosely connected “Stop Trump Coalition.” Environmental activists, pro-Ukraine advocates, and opponents of Israel’s actions in Gaza all united under a shared banner of resistance.
Anita Bhadani, one of the event’s organizers, described the atmosphere as “kind of like a carnival of resistance,” a fitting phrase for a gathering full of diverse voices and causes.
Powerful Symbols and Strong Words
One standout among the demonstrators was June Osbourne, a 52-year-old photographer and historian from Edinburgh. She sported a striking red cloak and white hood — a clear nod to the dystopian imagery from The Handmaid’s Tale. Holding up a photo of Trump with a bold “Resist” stamp across his face, she captured the mood of many.
Osbourne, who holds dual U.S.-British citizenship, expressed her strong feelings about Trump’s influence: “I think there are far too many countries feeling pressured by Trump, like they have no choice but to accept him. But we shouldn’t accept him here. He’s the worst thing that’s happened to the world and the U.S. in decades.”
Local Youth Join the Movement
It wasn’t just older activists who turned out. Fifteen-year-old Amy White from Edinburgh showed up with her parents, holding a cardboard sign that read, “We don’t negotiate with fascists.” Amy captured the unity felt among protesters, saying, “So many people here loathe him. We’re not divided — not by religion, race, or politics. We’re just here together because we hate him.”
Her youthful energy was echoed by many who felt compelled to take a stand.
From Scandal to Scorn: Epstein Signs and Political Disdain
The protests also reflected wider controversies swirling around Trump. Several demonstrators held signs linking him with Jeffrey Epstein, tapping into the ongoing public frustration over the Epstein case files and Trump’s connection to the disgraced financier.
Mark Gorman, 63, an advertising professional from Edinburgh, summed up the local sentiment, saying, “The vast majority of Scots feel that even though he has Scottish roots, he’s a disgrace. I came out because I have deep disdain for Donald Trump and everything he stands for.”
While the protests weren’t as massive as those during Trump’s 2018 visit, they still carried a powerful message.
Chants, Signs, and Even a Dog’s Protest
Despite a smaller crowd than in years past, protesters kept the energy high. The sound of bagpipes filled the air as chants of “Trump Out!” echoed through the streets. Homemade signs read “No red carpet for dictators,” “We don’t want you here,” and “Stop Trump. Migrants welcome.”
Adding a touch of humor, one dog sported a sign declaring, “No treats for tyrants.” Even amidst serious protest, moments like these added a bit of levity and personality to the events.
Political Counter-Movements and Official Support
Not everyone in Scotland was united against Trump. On social media, far-right groups called for pro-Trump gatherings, especially in Glasgow, attempting to balance the protest narrative.
Meanwhile, Scottish First Minister John Swinney announced that public funds would help support the upcoming 2025 Nexo Championship, a golf tournament held at Trump’s other Scottish course near Aberdeen. Swinney emphasized the economic benefits of golf events for tourism and the local economy, signaling a more pragmatic approach.
Trump’s Visit: More Than Just Golf
While golf was the headline activity, the visit also had clear political goals. Trump planned meetings with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ursula von der Leyen, the president of the European Commission, to discuss trade issues.
But the Trump family’s trip had a special focus on their Scottish golf empire. They were set to open a second Trump course near Aberdeen with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday. The Scottish golf world remains one of Trump’s proudest ventures, and he has long pushed for Turnberry to host the prestigious British Open—a title the course hasn’t held since Trump’s ownership began.
Trump’s Scottish Roots and Local Sentiment
Trump’s late mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, hailed from the Isle of Lewis in Scotland, and the president often talks about feeling a special connection to the country. Yet, as these protests show, many Scots want him to know that connection doesn’t automatically mean acceptance.
Scottish Parliament member Maggie Chapman spoke at a protest in Aberdeen, telling the crowd of hundreds, “We stand in solidarity, not just against Trump but against everything he and his politics represent.”
Social Media Moments and Trump’s Own Words
On social media, Trump shared a quote from retired golf legend Gary Player, who praised Turnberry as one of the “Top Five Greatest Golf Courses” he had ever played. However, in a humorous slip, Trump misspelled the city where his prized course is located, highlighting a human side even amid the political spectacle.
Final Thoughts: A Visit That’s About More Than Golf
Donald Trump’s Scottish golf trip might look like a laid-back day on the links, but it’s a microcosm of global politics, local protest, and cultural clashes. From the serene seaside greens to the raucous city streets, Scotland’s complex relationship with Trump shines through.
Whether you see this as a business visit, a political mission, or a moment of cultural reckoning, one thing is clear: Trump’s presence in Scotland continues to stir passionate responses—on both sides of the Atlantic and across generations.
If you want a quick rundown:
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Trump and son Eric golfed at Turnberry, with U.S. ambassador Warren Stephens
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Hundreds protested in Edinburgh, calling out both Trump and UK leadership
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A diverse “Stop Trump Coalition” formed, blending environmentalists, anti-war activists, and pro-Ukraine groups
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Protesters used powerful symbols, like The Handmaid’s Tale costumes and signs linking Trump to Epstein
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Young activists joined with passionate messages rejecting fascism and division
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Scottish First Minister supports golf events for economic reasons, even if political opposition is strong
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Trump’s Scottish roots complicated the reception but didn’t soften local disdain
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The trip included plans for trade talks and the opening of a second Trump golf course near Aberdeen
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Social media buzzed with both praise and ridicule, including Trump’s own amusing typo
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