Trump says Dolly Parton's death feels like losing ‘a member of the family’, claims ‘she really liked me’

President Donald Trump expressed deep sorrow over the passing of country music icon Dolly Parton, comparing her loss to that of a family member. During an interview with conservative commentator Glenn Beck, Trump remarked, "She was unique. She was amazing. And to lose her, it's like you lose a member of the family. You know, we all knew her so well."

Trump further revealed that Parton had a personal fondness for him, stating, "I knew her a little bit. She wasn't a very political person. She really liked me." However, Trump acknowledged that Parton was not a political figure, adding, "But she was also of the opinion – you know, the 50%, who needs to lose? I don't think it's 50, I think it's probably 20% of the fans, OK?"

After announcing Parton's death on August 25, Trump ordered the lowering of American flags across the nation. Parton's family revealed on Tuesday that she had passed away at the age of 80 following a brief battle with cancer. Tributes to Parton have been pouring in from across the political spectrum since her passing.