Donald Trump is undeniably a larger-than-life figure. His presence is big in every sense – from his stature and persona to his sweeping influence.
It’s fitting, then, that he leads a rather sizeable family. In an interesting twist to the conservative values he’s voiced at certain times, Trump has five children with three different women.
His eldest child, Donald Jr., will celebrate his 48th birthday later this year. The youngest, Barron Trump, is now 19. Over time, this extensive family has blossomed, giving Trump 11 grandchildren. Clearly, the Trump name and legacy are poised to endure strongly – at least numerically speaking.
Several Trumps have carved out influential profiles in their own right. One might argue that their status and wealth owe much to the family’s patriarch, now known as POTUS, but it’s evident that most of Donald’s children have managed to establish themselves as celebrities.
Yet, the youngest generation of Trumps, Donald’s grandchildren, haven’t yet made their mark on the global stage. These are the family members who are still growing up and haven’t become the center of their grandfather’s world of politics and business.
This doesn’t mean they escape media attention. Quite the opposite, in fact.
Recently, young Spencer, son of Donald Trump Jr. and Vanessa Trump, turned 13. This milestone surprisingly drew attention, offering him a glimpse of life under the public eye, given his famous surname.
Now, it’s worth stating up front: Spencer Trump is a spotless young boy, with no wrongdoing attached to his name. At 13, he’s likely enjoying his adolescent years, much like other teens his age.
However, his father, Donald Trump Jr., found himself at the heart of controversy after sharing birthday wishes for his son online.
Don Jr., with more than 10 million Instagram followers, did what any proud parent might do on such a special day: He posted a 12-photo tribute to Spencer celebrating his big birthday.
“Happy birthday to my littlest man, Spencer. I can’t believe you’re 13! Enjoy your big day! Love you lots. Can’t wait to enjoy the outdoors together again. You make me so proud,” Don Jr. expressed.
At a glance, nothing appears contentious, right? Yet, some saw things differently. Three photos showed Spencer with hunting rifles, sparking a backlash among those disturbed by the sight of a child learning to use firearms.
One comment on Instagram stated, “Giving a kid a gun before he’s even 13, that’s truly disturbing. There’s no need for youngsters nowadays to hunt animals for food.”
Another user chimed in, “You’re a disgraceful human being – not satisfied unless you’re killing innocent animals.”
People who follow Don. Jr. will recall that controversy trails his passion for hunting. The BBC noted in 2019 that he went on a hunting trip in Mongolia, reportedly costing US taxpayers over $75,000.
That same year, ProPublica investigated claims that Don Jr. shot a rare Argali mountain sheep, later obtaining retroactive shooting permission from the Mongolian authorities.
Earlier this year, he was accused of shooting a protected Ruddy Shelduck in an Italian conservation zone, sparking another investigation. Trump Jr. and his team have consistently denied any breach of regulations.
What do you think about the criticisms directed at Don Jr. for allowing his son to handle hunting rifles? Share your thoughts below.