Trump ripped Obama for flying long distances to play golf. Now he’s flying to the Irish Open

President Donald Trump is planning a visit to Ireland in September to attend the Irish Open golf tournament at his Doonbeg golf course in County Clare, according to a White House official. This latest trip adds to a pattern of the president blurring the line between official business and leisure travel that benefits his family's business interests.

Trump's sons now oversee operations at the Trump Organization, but the September trip highlights how Trump has used his second term to profit from his properties. Trump is set to arrive in Ireland on September 12 and 13, joining U.S. embassy staff and business leaders before playing at the Trump International Golf Links Ireland.

His Bedminster course in New Jersey recently hosted a LIV golf event, and the Doral course in Florida will host the Cadillac Championship in March 2028. Trump has also discussed hosting the British Open at his Turnberry course in Scotland, though logistical challenges remain. Last summer, Trump spent five days golfing in Scotland and inaugurated a new Trump course in Balmedie, Aberdeenshire.

While the White House did not label the Scotland trip a vacation, they insisted it was a working visit, as Trump reportedly discussed trade with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Trump is known for frequenting his own golf courses, particularly in Florida and New Jersey, but typically avoids lengthy vacations.

His upcoming trip to Ireland will occur shortly after he attempts to rally Republican support for the November elections, as the GOP holds its first-ever national convention ahead of the midterms.