Donald Trump Opens Up About Lifelong Sobriety: A Tribute to His Late Brother

During a 2024 appearance on Theo Von’s podcast This Past Weekend, former President Donald Trump shared the personal reason behind his lifelong choice to abstain from alcohol and drugs.

When Von asked if he had ever smoked or drank, Trump replied:

“No, I never have. I had a great brother who taught me a lesson.”

Trump was referring to Fred Trump Jr., who tragically passed away from a heart attack at just 42 in 1981. Fred struggled with alcohol and smoking, and his battle left a lasting impression on his younger brother.

“He smoked and drank—great guy, very handsome, incredible personality,” Trump reflected. “But he had a problem with alcohol… I tell my kids, ‘No drugs, no drinking, no cigarettes.’ I admired him so much, and seeing what he went through made me realize I could never take that path.”

Trump noted that witnessing Fred’s struggles and resilience was both sobering and inspiring:

“His body was unbelievably strong, but the effects of alcohol made life incredibly hard. I learned from Fred, and I’ve stayed away ever since.”

This candid reflection highlights how personal experiences, especially family struggles, can shape lifelong choices—even at the highest levels of power.