US PRESIDENT Donald Trump has rebuffed any suggestion he influenced Vice President Mike Pence’s decision to stay at his Doonbeg hotel resort during his two-day visit to Ireland.
The vice president stayed at the Trump International Golf Links and Hotel in Doonbeg, Co Clare when he visited Ireland this week.=
Mr Pence stayed at the resort despite all of his meetings taking place 160 miles away.
It was a move that sparked criticism among Democrats and government watchdogs with President Trump accused of profiting at the taxpayer’s expense.
Mr Pence’s chief of staff, Marc Short later told reporters decision to stay at the Trump property in Doonbeg was made was made at the president’s “suggestion.”
However, a spokesperson for the vice president later clarified those comments, explaining the decision to stay there was based on a desire to find accommodations near Mr Pence’s ancestral hometown and travelling distance from his appointments.
President Trump also dismissed any idea he influenced the decision, telling reporters: “People like my product. What can I tell you? I can’t help it.”
“I don’t suggest anything,” he said.
“I have a lot of hotels all over the place and people use them because they’re the best,” Mr Trump added. “I mean, they’re the best.”
