Tony Schwartz, the writer who helped craft Donald Trump's bestselling 1987 book The Art of the Deal, delivered one of his sharpest public criticisms of the president this week, describing Trump as "demented" and "self-destructive" while predicting that his political fortunes could deteriorate dramatically if Republicans suffer setbacks in upcoming elections.
Appearing on MSNBC's MS NOW with host Ari Melber on June 11, Schwartz argued that the personality traits he observed while working with Trump decades ago have become more pronounced during the president's return to the White House. His comments add to a long-running feud between the two men that has intensified since Trump's entry into politics.
Schwartz occupies a unique place among Trump's critics. As the co-author of The Art of the Deal, he played a central role in shaping the public image of Trump as a successful businessman long before he entered electoral politics. In recent years, however, Schwartz has repeatedly expressed regret about his involvement in creating that image and has become one of the president's most vocal detractors.
During the interview, Melber referenced recent controversies surrounding Trump's public remarks, including comments in which the president said he "loves" inflation while defending his economic policies. Schwartz argued that such statements reflect broader behavioral patterns rather than isolated political missteps.
"It's demented. I mean, it's so self-destructive," Schwartz said.
He went on to describe Trump as a figure constantly seeking validation and attention, comparing the president's behavior to that of someone chasing an increasingly elusive reward. According to Schwartz, Trump's political comeback initially provided that sense of fulfillment but failed to satisfy it for long.
"He poured it in and maxed out when he was reelected president," Schwartz said. "And it looked fantastic. But it seeped out incredibly quickly."
The former co-author suggested that Trump's political strategy has become dependent on ever-larger confrontations and increasingly provocative actions. "And then he has to keep upping the ante and chasing the high," Schwartz said. "And so now where he's at is there's no high to chase."
The interview also touched on growing concerns among some Republicans about the party's prospects in future elections. Melber cited comments from Senator John Cornyn of Texas, who has warned that political setbacks could create serious challenges for both Trump and the Republican Party.
Schwartz argued that the scale of voter dissatisfaction may be underestimated by many political observers. He predicted that Democrats could outperform expectations in future elections, particularly if economic concerns remain elevated and political polarization continues to intensify.
"I think people really, maybe this is my hope, are underestimating how big this blue wave is going to be," Schwartz said. "I think it's going to be bigger."
Some of Schwartz's comments extended beyond politics. He speculated about Trump's ability to withstand future political pressures, suggesting that a significant electoral defeat could have a profound personal impact on the president. However, Schwartz provided no medical evidence for suggestions regarding Trump's health, and none of his remarks constituted a clinical assessment.
"He would not step down or bow out," Schwartz said, while arguing that political losses could still affect Trump's engagement with governing.
