Donald Trump: I Don't Like Good-Looking People
Donald Trump speaking at the 2016 Republican National Convention. Photo courtesy of Ali Shaker/VOA. Public domain.
In a moment that left many scratching their heads, President Donald Trump stunned an audience aboard the USS George Washington in Japan with a bizarre declaration: he said he does not like good-looking people. The comment, delivered during a speech on October 28, 2025, was as unexpected as it was puzzling, especially coming from a man whose public persona has long been intertwined with an obsession over appearances. The remark instantly sparked intrigue and curiosity, raising questions about what prompted such a statement and whether it signals a shift in Trump's usual rhetoric or was simply an off-the-cuff quip.
The setting was a high-profile visit to Japan, part of a three-country Asian tour that also included stops in Malaysia and South Korea. Speaking to U.S. troops aboard the aircraft carrier, Trump veered off his prepared remarks about the Navy's strength, to deliver the startling line. He admitted, "I don't like good-looking people ... I never liked good-looking people, I'll be honest with you," as reported by The Daily Beast. The comment came with a laugh from the crowd but left observers wondering how to reconcile this with Trump's well-documented history of praising beauty, especially among those close to him.
A Stunning Contrast to a Well-Known Image
Donald Trump's public image has long been wrapped up in glamour, style, and a fascination with physical appearance. From his days as a real estate mogul and reality TV star to his political career, Trump has frequently commented on the looks of others — sometimes in ways that sparked controversy. He famously owned the Miss Universe Organization and has never shied away from complimenting the beauty of his daughter, Ivanka, once even suggesting on a radio show that if she were not his daughter, he might be dating her. His admiration for his ex-model wife Melania's looks is well documented, and he has often lavished praise on female allies and world leaders alike.
This makes his recent statement aboard the USS George Washington all the more perplexing. How does a man who has built part of his brand on celebrating attractiveness suddenly claim a dislike for good-looking people? The contradiction is striking and invites speculation about the motivation behind the remark.
The Curious Timing and Possible Motives
The timing of Trump's comment adds another layer of intrigue. Delivered during a speech meant to boost morale and highlight the merit-based strength of the U.S. military, the remark about disliking good-looking people seemed out of place. Trump followed it by emphasizing that America is now focused on meritocracy, seemingly lumping "good-looking people" in with diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives he has criticized. This suggests the comment might have been a tongue-in-cheek jab at what he perceives as superficial or politically motivated preferences.
Yet, the remark also came after Trump acknowledged seeing many good-looking troops, praising their merit. This contradictory messaging only deepens the mystery. Was Trump signaling a deeper disdain for what he sees as an overemphasis on appearance in politics and society? Or was it simply a spontaneous, humorous aside that caught everyone off guard?
A Pattern of Appearance-Obsessed Praise
Despite the recent claim, Trump's history tells a different story. He has repeatedly made headlines for his comments on the looks of prominent figures. For instance, during a recent international peace summit, he complimented Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's beauty, acknowledging the political risk of doing so in the United States. He has also praised British royals, including Kate Middleton and Prince William, describing them as "beautiful" and "good-looking," as reported by The Daily Beast. His admiration extends beyond allies to foreign leaders such as Syria's Ahmed al-Sharaa and Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, whom he called "handsome" and "smart."
This pattern of public admiration for attractiveness makes his sudden declaration of dislike all the more confounding. It raises the question of whether the comment was a calculated rhetorical pivot or simply a moment of improvisation during a lengthy speech.
What Does This Mean for Trump's Public Persona?
The remark opens a window into the complex and often contradictory nature of Donald Trump's public persona. On one hand, he has built a brand that thrives on glamour, celebrity, and the allure of beauty. On the other, he has positioned himself as a champion of merit and a critic of what he sees as political correctness and superficial standards.
Could this statement be a subtle critique of the culture of image obsession that he himself has helped cultivate? Or is it a strategic attempt to distance himself from the very image-centric politics that have defined much of his career? The answer remains unclear, but the comment certainly adds a new twist to the ongoing saga of Trump's relationship with appearance and power.
The Intrigue Continues
For those who follow Trump's every move, this unexpected declaration is a juicy puzzle piece. It invites us to wonder what lies beneath the surface of his public statements and whether there is a new strategy at play. Is Trump signaling a shift toward a more substantive, merit-based rhetoric? Or is this simply another example of his unpredictable, off-the-cuff style that keeps the world guessing?
Whatever the case, the moment aboard the USS George Washington will be remembered as one of the more curious and contradictory episodes in Trump's long and colorful public life. It's a reminder that even the most familiar figures can surprise us, leaving us eager to see what they will say or do next.
References: Donald Trump Claims, 'I Don't Like Good-Looking People' | Image-Obsessed Trump Makes Genuinely Shocking Claim About Good-Looking People
