The Apprentice: Fact vs. Fiction in 10 Moments (2 of 6)

2. Did Trump and His Father Face a Lawsuit for Racial Discrimination?

Yes.In 1973, the Department of Justice sued Trump Management for allegedly refusing to rent apartments to Black tenants. Cohn represented Trump in this high-profile case. While the lawsuit was eventually settled, the scandal cemented the Trump family’s controversial reputation. Cohn also taught Trump his infamous mantra: “Attack, deny, claim victory.” It’s a motto that defined much of Trump’s career.

3. Were Trump’s Financial Troubles in the ’80s Real?

Without a doubt. The film shows Trump ignoring Cohn’s financial advice and overextending his empire with risky investments, particularly in Atlantic City casinos. While some dramatized moments—like Trump coercing his father for money—lack concrete evidence, his financial struggles during that time are well-documented. His overconfidence nearly led to financial ruin, and he filed for bankruptcy multiple times.