The Daily Beast Podcast Truth About Trump’s Miserable Mar-a-Lago Christmas
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Dec 28, 2025 
Michael Wolff, a seasoned author and journalist known for his insight on media and politics, joins Joanna Coles to unravel the dynamics of Christmas at Mar-a-Lago. They reveal how the festive season is more about performance and attention than genuine family warmth. Wolff shares intriguing details about Trump's late-night Truth Social posts and the hyper-religious messaging within Trump’s circle. They also focus on Melania's rare moments of animation and the peculiar rituals that overshadow authenticity in this glamorous yet controlled setting.
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Truth Social Marathon On Christmas Eve
- Joanna Coles points out Trump posted over 100 messages on Truth Social on Christmas Eve night, suggesting sleepless activity.
- Wolff adds Trump likely stayed up posting and then woke to calls and TV screens, continuing the same media-driven routine.
Performance Over Family Intimacy
- Wolff and Coles argue Trump's public scenes are performative and geared toward validation rather than intimacy.
- They emphasize Trump lights up when recognized, treating social encounters as proof of status.
Roped-Off Centerpiece At Mar-a-Lago
- Michael Wolff describes Trump at a roped-off central table on the Mar-a-Lago patio, greeting guests and posing for attention.
- Joanna Coles notes Melania appeared unusually animated with her father at that same dinner, a rare personal moment captured on video.