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Kellyanne Conway’s memoir has unearthed a pivotal moment in Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign, shedding light on his contemplation of withdrawing from the race following the explosive Access Hollywood tape controversy. Released in October 2016, the tape featured Trump making derogatory comments about women, sparking widespread condemnation weeks before Election Day.
In an excerpt from Conway’s memoir, Trump and his campaign team convened at Trump Tower on October 8, 2016, to discuss the fallout. Despite public denials, Conway disclosed Trump’s serious concerns that the Republican Party might force him off the ticket or hold a vote to expel him.
Reportedly, Trump turned to Conway and asked, “Should I get out [of the race]?” Conway, then his campaign manager and later a White House counselor, recounted her response: “You actually can’t…unless you want to forfeit and throw the whole damn thing to Hillary [Clinton].” Trump, evidently taken aback, questioned, “What do you mean I can’t?” Conway explained, reminding him of his aversion to both losing and quitting.
Despite his wavering, Conway reassured Trump of their campaign’s resilience and prospects for victory, while condemning his recorded remarks as “disgusting” and “reprehensible,” according to Newsweek’s report on her memoir.
However, Trump’s spokeswoman, Liz Harrington, swiftly disputed Conway’s account, dismissing it as inaccurate and asserting, “This is totally false and not even what Kellyanne Conway’s book says. This is a total fake news invention,” as reported by Newsweek.
The Access Hollywood tape, recorded in 2005 and featuring Trump’s lewd comments, triggered a firestorm of criticism and led Trump to characterize his remarks as “locker room banter.” He also sought to deflect by referencing past controversies involving former President Bill Clinton.
Responding to the controversy on the day the tape surfaced, Trump publicly declared his intent to remain in the race, asserting, “I’d never withdraw. I’ve never withdrawn in my life…No, I’m not quitting this race. I have tremendous support…People are calling and saying, ‘Don’t even think about doing anything else but running,'” as reported by The Independent.
Billy Bush, the TV host present during the tape’s recording, later confirmed Trump’s remarks and criticized his attempt to downplay them. “Of course he said it,” Bush stated. “President Trump is currently indulging in some revisionist history… This has hit a raw nerve in me.”
The revelation from Conway’s memoir adds a significant chapter to the narrative of Trump’s 2016 campaign, highlighting moments of crisis and resilience amidst unprecedented challenges. As the political landscape continues to evolve, discussions around Trump’s actions and responses during critical junctures remain central to understanding his presidency and legacy.
