The quote discusses how Donald Trump's connection with Paul Manafort traces back to Roy Cohn, a controversial lawyer known for his involvement with Joseph McCarthy and organized crime figures. It highlights that Trump and his father hired Cohn during the 1970s to defend their family against accusations of housing discrimination.
To delve deeper into this quote, it reveals the intricate web of relationships in high-profile American politics and business circles. Roy Cohn is portrayed as a pivotal figure who connected various influential individuals, such as Trump and Manafort, through his legal representation and strategic counsel. His background working with Joseph McCarthy and his ties to organized crime suggest that Cohn was adept at navigating complex political environments, which likely influenced the careers of those he represented. The mention of housing discrimination also underscores early controversies in Trump's family business, providing context for how his legal issues from decades ago could impact current affairs.
The author of this quote is Franklin Foer, a journalist and essayist known for his incisive writing on American politics and culture. His work often delves into the historical backgrounds and connections between influential figures, making him well-suited to provide such detailed insights into political relationships like those involving Trump, Manafort, and Cohn.