Donald Trump: Is he for real?

Many people seem to be questioning whether Donald Trump is the real deal. Does he genuinely wish to be the next President of the United States, or is this all a publicity stunt?

For one, he has changed party affiliations various times throughout the years. Today he comes off as an ardent Republican, but not too long ago he was rubbing elbows with Bill Clinton and making sizable donations to his campaign. The blustery real estate mogul has called himself a Republican twice, and both a Democrat and independent once.

One thing is for sure: When Donald Trump talks, people listen. Like President Obama, the man oozes charisma. What distinguishes him from his fellow candidates, though, is that he speaks his mind with no restraint whatsoever. Indeed, when it comes to the Donald, there's no holding of the tongue: if you don't like what he has to say, he couldn't care less.

There's no denying that Donald Trump is shaking up the establishment. Many of his comments and views are controversial, yes, but he is certainly doing his part to fire up the base. In fact, comments he's made about Republican opponents like Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz have prompted them to come out and defend their positions. When you have a considerably crowded field of GOP candidates -- right now there are 16 -- you need all the visibility you can get.

Trump has also stolen a bit of the spotlight from Hillary Clinton, whom many presume is a shoo-in for the Democratic nomination.

Presidential races have gradually evolved into something of a popularity contest. Politicians have themselves become walking brands. The Bushes and Clintons are dynasties in the world of politics, while most people know Donald Trump for his high stature in the business world and his regular appearance on "The Apprentice" and "Celebrity Apprentice."

Trump has stated that if he fails to secure the Republican nomination, he may strongly consider running as a 3rd party candidate. History has shown us that third party bids are rarely successful. Take the Presidential election of 1912. After failing to clinch the Republican nomination, Teddy Roosevelt (who served two terms as President from 1901 to 1909) formed the Progressive Party to run against incumbent Republican president William Howard Taft and Democratic nominee Woodrow Wilson, who ultimately won the contest. And we saw a similar scenario play out in the 1992 presidential election, with Bill Clinton defeating incumbent president George H.W. Bush and independent Ross Perot.

I might disagree with a lot of things Donald Trump has to say, but I can't deny he's energetic and entertaining to watch. I'm looking forward to seeing him duke it out with his fellow candidates in the Republican debates.

How do you feel about Donald Trump? Do you think this is all a PR stunt, or does he seem genuine when he says he's the only one who can make America better again?

Share your thoughts and be sure to read previous posts by clicking here: How to Understand People

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