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Fact check: Nobel Peace Prize - cann Trump win it?

Checked on August 18, 2025

1. Summary of the results

Yes, Trump can technically win the Nobel Peace Prize, as confirmed by multiple sources. Trump has already been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by world leaders, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, primarily for his administration's role in the Abraham Accords and other diplomatic efforts [1].

The White House and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have been actively lobbying for the award, despite Trump's public claims of not politicking for the prize [2]. The sources reveal that foreign leaders have nominated him in an attempt to curry favor with the American president [2], and that Trump's desire for a Nobel Peace Prize is a significant factor driving his diplomatic efforts, including summits with world leaders like Vladimir Putin [3].

However, being nominated does not guarantee winning the prize [1], and the Norwegian Nobel Committee's decision is independent and not susceptible to persuasion [4].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original question lacks several crucial pieces of context:

  • The nomination process: The sources explain that there is a specific process for how the Nobel Peace Prize works, including who can nominate and how the Norwegian Nobel Committee decides [5].
  • Active campaigning efforts: Trump and his administration are intensifying a public campaign to win the Nobel Peace Prize [4], which contradicts any narrative of passive consideration.
  • Strategic motivations: Trump's obsession with the prize may be driving his diplomatic decisions and potentially impacting diplomatic relations [3], suggesting the pursuit itself influences policy.
  • Critical perspective: There is significant opposition to Trump's candidacy, with critics arguing that Trump's foreign policy has often undermined global 'fraternity' and that his campaign for the Nobel Peace Prize is absurd [6].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question appears neutral but omits critical context that could mislead readers:

  • It fails to mention the active lobbying campaign being conducted by Trump's administration, which could give the false impression that any potential award would be based purely on merit rather than political maneuvering.
  • It doesn't acknowledge the controversial nature of Trump's candidacy, with sources citing his role in launching global trade wars, reneging on pivotal agreements, and supporting Israel's actions in Gaza as counterarguments to his peace credentials [6].
  • The question ignores the political motivations behind the nominations, where foreign leaders are nominating Trump to curry favor rather than based on genuine peace achievements [2].

Key beneficiaries of promoting Trump's Nobel candidacy include Trump himself (legacy building), Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other foreign leaders seeking favorable relations with the U.S., and Trump's political supporters who would use such recognition for electoral advantage.

Want to dive deeper?
What are the official criteria for winning the Nobel Peace Prize?
Has any US President won the Nobel Peace Prize while in office?
Can the Nobel Peace Prize be awarded to individuals with controversial pasts?
What is the process for nominating candidates for the Nobel Peace Prize?
Have there been any instances of the Nobel Peace Prize being awarded to politicians with divisive reputations?