One of the most peculiar and widely discussed conspiracy theories related to Donald Trump involves the burial of his ex-wife, Ivana Trump, at his golf course in New Jersey. The couple was married from 1977 until 1990 and had three children—Donald Jr., Ivanka, and Eric. Despite their divorce, Ivana continued to be a significant public figure, and many anticipated that her final resting place would reflect her prominence. However, her grave was situated at Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, which sparked public intrigue and skepticism.
Images from 2023 revealed that the burial site appeared overgrown and neglected, raising questions about Trump’s intentions. Ivana was interred in an extravagant gold casket, and her funeral took place at St. Vincent Ferrer Roman Catholic Church in Manhattan, attended by Melania Trump. Nevertheless, the stark contrast between the lavish ceremony and the unadorned grave site at the golf club intensified speculation regarding possible ulterior motives.
In 2014, Trump reportedly aimed to transform the golf course into a cemetery, initially proposing a large-scale project. Although that proposal was rejected, a smaller site permitting up to ten burials was approved. Ivana is the first known individual to be interred there, leading to suspicions that the site might serve future purposes beyond family burial.
Brooke Harrington, a sociology professor at Dartmouth, analyzed New Jersey’s tax code and identified potential tax advantages from designating the land as a cemetery. She contended that this classification could significantly lower Trump’s property, income, and sales taxes. Harrington also criticized the grave’s condition, describing it as “little more than a pauper’s grave.”
Despite these potential benefits, Newsweek indicated that the tax advantages might be minimal and complex to realize. While Ivana’s burial could provide Trump with some financial relief, it remains uncertain whether the endeavor is genuinely worthwhile. The enigma continues to provoke discussion, intertwining legal strategy with personal legacy in a distinctive and contentious manner.