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Fact check: Does Donald Trump smell bad?

Checked on March 6, 2025

1. Summary of the results

The question of Donald Trump's smell has generated conflicting accounts from different public figures. Piers Morgan, who has spent considerable time with Trump, describes him as having a pleasant scent of "expensive aftershave" with a "light, gentle aroma" [1] [1]. However, Adam Kinzinger and Kathy Griffin present contradictory accounts, describing an unpleasant odor [2].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

An important context missing from the original question is Trump's well-documented germaphobic tendencies and obsession with cleanliness [3] [1]. This behavioral pattern, including frequent use of hand sanitizer, suggests regular attention to personal hygiene.

The matter is further complicated by the subjective nature of smell perception - what one person finds pleasant, another might find offensive. The claims cannot be scientifically verified, as they are based entirely on personal opinions [4].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The question itself appears to stem from politically motivated discussions rather than genuine inquiry about personal hygiene. Several potential biases are at play:

  • Political Opponents: Critics like Adam Kinzinger and Kathy Griffin, who have publicly opposed Trump, benefit from negative characterizations [4] [2]
  • Trump Allies: Supporters like Piers Morgan benefit from positive portrayals [1]
  • Trump's Team: His spokesperson frames negative comments as personal attacks rather than factual observations [4]

The discussion about Trump's smell appears to be more about political positioning than actual hygiene concerns, with different parties using the topic to either support or criticize him based on their existing political alignments.

Want to dive deeper?
Have any credible sources reported on Trump's personal hygiene or body odor?
What are the origins of claims about Trump's smell?
Have former White House staff made statements about Trump's personal habits?
What hygiene-related anecdotes have been reported by people who worked closely with Trump?
Are there documented instances of Trump's personal grooming habits being discussed publicly?