Crippled America by Donald Trump Summary

Crippled America is Donald Trump's 2015 campaign book outlining his political vision for restoring America's greatness. The book covers Trump's positions on key issues including immigration, healthcare, the economy, education, and foreign policy, while criticizing career politicians and special interest groups. Trump argues that America has been "crippled" by ineffective leadership and proposes business-oriented solutions to revitalize the country.

Crippled America is ideal for readers interested in understanding Trump's political philosophy and policy positions during his 2016 presidential campaign. The book appeals to voters seeking alternatives to traditional politicians, supporters of business-oriented governance, and anyone curious about Trump's perspective on America's challenges. Political enthusiasts and those studying campaign literature will find valuable insights into his messaging strategies.

Crippled America offers direct insight into Trump's political thinking and campaign promises, making it valuable for understanding his presidential approach. Reader reviews are polarized, with supporters praising its clarity and vision while critics question its feasibility. The book serves as an important historical document of the 2016 election cycle, regardless of one's political alignment.

The core themes include dismantling the political establishment, implementing business principles in government, and restoring American competitiveness. Trump advocates for stronger border security including a wall with Mexico, repealing the Affordable Care Act, eliminating the Department of Education, and implementing a flat tax system. He emphasizes bringing manufacturing jobs back to America and reducing dependence on career politicians and lobbyists.

Trump characterizes the American immigration system as a complete failure that has allowed violent criminals to enter the country. He proposes comprehensive immigration reform including constructing a substantial border wall with Mexico and cutting federal funding to sanctuary cities. The book presents stronger border security as essential to national safety and economic prosperity.

Trump positions himself as a strong opponent of the Affordable Care Act, advocating for its complete repeal and replacement. He proposes implementing a free-market healthcare system that would increase competition and reduce costs. The book argues that market-driven solutions would provide better care while eliminating government inefficiencies in healthcare delivery.

Trump presents an infrastructure investment plan that he claims would create 13 million jobs and generate the largest economic boom since Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal. He advocates for a flat tax system benefiting the middle class and policies to bring manufacturing jobs back from overseas. The book emphasizes using business expertise rather than political experience to drive economic growth.

Trump portrays career politicians as a privileged class more concerned with personal ambitions than serving ordinary citizens. He criticizes the political establishment for prioritizing job security, campaign fundraising, and appeasing special interest groups over solving real problems. The book argues that Washington's stagnation results from a lack of leadership, courage, and practical business wisdom.

Crippled America builds on Trump's business success narrative from "The Art of the Deal" while positioning him as the outsider who will negotiate better deals for America. Unlike traditional political memoirs, the book emphasizes business accomplishments over political experience as qualifications for leadership. Critics note similarities to Obama's "The Audacity of Hope" in presenting an outsider's critique of Washington dysfunction.

Trump advocates for eliminating the Department of Education and returning educational policy-making to state governments. He supports school choice initiatives that would force schools to compete for students, believing market competition will improve educational quality. The book presents privatization and competition as solutions to America's educational challenges.

Critics argue the book lacks substantive policy details and relies heavily on Trump's business persona rather than addressing complex governance issues. Some reviewers note the absence of discussion on significant social issues like police violence and systemic inequality. The book has been criticized for promoting an individualistic worldview that may create "more losers than winners" in society.