Podcast Title: Bulwark Takes
Episode: Trump’s Golf Game Is a Lie
Release Date: July 28, 2025
Host/Author: The Bulwark

Introduction

In the episode titled "Trump’s Golf Game Is a Lie," Sam Stein, the Managing Editor at The Bulwark, delves into the controversial topic of former President Donald Trump's golfing habits. Stein examines recent viral footage suggesting that Trump may be bending the rules to enhance his golfing image. Through a detailed analysis, Stein explores the implications of these actions on Trump's public persona and credibility.

Setting the Scene

At the outset, Stein sets up the context of Trump's golfing activities. He describes a scenario where Trump is overseas at his Turnberry golf club, engaging in significant diplomatic efforts, including discussing trade deals with European leaders. Despite the importance of his diplomatic engagements, Trump chooses to spend substantial time on the golf course—a sport he has long favored, even mocking former President Barack Obama for his golfing habits. Stein remarks:

"I think it's a good stress relief. Golf's awesome." (00:00)

Viral Video Analysis

Stein references a viral video that purportedly shows Trump manipulating his golf game. The footage depicts Trump appearing to retrieve a golf ball that isn't actually in play. According to Stein, this kind of behavior undermines the integrity of the game and raises questions about Trump's honesty. He narrates:

"President Trump's swing is being shown off in Scotland and people are amazed at his form... Democrats have spent months trying to say he's not fit for office." (04:50)

Detailed Breakdown of the Cheating Allegations

Stein provides a step-by-step analysis of the alleged cheating incident. He describes how Trump's caddy and he maneuver to present a nonexistent ball, allowing Trump to continue playing without the consequences of a lost ball. Key points include:

• Manipulation of the Ball's Position:

  "Donald Trump was just casually putting down a ball at a place where no ball was seemingly in existence so that he can just keep on playing." (08:30)

• Use of the Grass to Conceal Absence:

  "He moved the grass out of the way. That's like the proper way to cheat." (09:15)

• Presumed Intent to Cheat:

  "I feel fairly confident that we can call this cheating because of the way he doesn't even bother to say, hey, you dropped the ball." (07:45)

Stein also highlights Trump's demeanor during these actions, noting his lack of concern or reaction, which he interprets as indicative of routine dishonest behavior on the golf course.

Expert Opinion and Supporting Evidence

To bolster his claims, Stein references the work of Rick Riley, a renowned sports writer for Sports Illustrated. Riley's book, "Commander and Cheat: How Golf Explains Trump," is cited as evidence of Trump's alleged habitual cheating. A notable quote from Riley's book featured in the episode states:

"Trump doesn't just cheat at golf. He throws it, boots it, and moves it. He lies about his lies." (11:20)

Additionally, Stein discusses Trump's inflated golf accomplishments and his questionable golf handicap:

• Self-Proclaimed Golf Championships:

  "As of July of this year, he has claimed to have won five golf championships... including claims of winning events without actually playing the initial rounds." (10:00)

• Exaggerated Handicap:

  "Trump had a handicap of 2.8, which is ridiculous. If it were true, it would make him one of the best golfers in the world for someone his age." (11:50)

Critique of Trump's Golf Achievements

Stein scrutinizes Trump's golf achievements, emphasizing the improbability of his claims. He points out discrepancies such as winning championships without participating in initial rounds and achieving exceptionally low scores that are statistically unlikely for his age and purported skill level. Stein sarcastically comments:

"I don't believe a second of it. But, hey, if it makes you feel good." (10:45)

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In wrapping up the episode, Stein reflects on the broader implications of Trump's alleged cheating:

• Impact on Public Perception:

  "The lie of all lies, though, is his handicap." (12:00)

• Personal Disappointment:

  "I'm a little sad about this video because we don't actually get to see the shot that Trump takes." (07:30)

Stein concludes by expressing his frustration with Trump's behavior, suggesting that while cheating in golf might seem trivial to some, it symbolizes deeper issues of honesty and integrity in leadership.

Key Takeaways

1. Allegations of Cheating: The episode centers on viral footage suggesting Donald Trump manipulates golf rules to maintain an excellent public image.
2. Detailed Analysis: Stein breaks down the video evidence, highlighting specific moments that indicate dishonest behavior.
3. Expert Support: References to Rick Riley’s book provide additional credibility to the cheating claims.
4. Questionable Achievements: Trump's self-reported golf accomplishments and extraordinarily low handicap are critically examined and deemed implausible.
5. Broader Implications: The discussion extends beyond golf, touching on issues of integrity and public trust in leadership roles.

Notable Quotes

• Sam Stein on Golf as Stress Relief:

  "I think it's a good stress relief. Golf's awesome." (00:00)

• Sam Stein on Trump's Golfing Reputation:

  "President Trump's swing is being shown off in Scotland and people are amazed at his form... Democrats have spent months trying to say he's not fit for office." (04:50)

• Sam Stein on Cheating Indicators:

  "I feel fairly confident that we can call this cheating because of the way he doesn't even bother to say, hey, you dropped the ball." (07:45)

• Rick Riley's Observation on Trump:

  "Trump doesn't just cheat at golf. He throws it, boots it, and moves it. He lies about his lies." (11:20)

• Sam Stein on Trump's Handicap Claim:

  "Trump had a handicap of 2.8, which is ridiculous. If it were true, it would make him one of the best golfers in the world for someone his age." (11:50)

Conclusion

"Trump’s Golf Game Is a Lie" offers a critical examination of Donald Trump's golfing behaviors, presenting evidence and expert opinions that challenge the former president's portrayal of himself as an exceptional golfer. Through meticulous analysis and pointed commentary, Sam Stein underscores concerns about honesty and integrity, both on the golf course and in leadership.