Edinburgh councillors have taken a firm stance against a potential visit by U.S. President Donald Trump, submitting motions to the city council that express their opposition to his presence in the Scottish capital.
According to the Edinburgh Evening News, two councillors have formally called on the council to refuse any involvement in or support for a visit by the current U.S. leader.
Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Green Party councillor Alex Staniforth referred to Trump as a “nascent fascist,” and referenced Trump’s involvement in the January 6th riots as part of a broader pattern of anti-democratic behavior.
“Edinburgh should not tolerate fascists and should have no part in welcoming a fascist leader into Scotland,” Staniforth stated. “I hope other parties will see that and refuse to support any visit he tries to make.” His motion calls on the council to reject any engagement with a Trump visit, should one be proposed.
An alternative motion, put forward by SNP councillor Lesley Macinnes focuses on the “shock and deep concern” surrounding a recent Oval Office debate between Trump, Vice President Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Macinnes’ motion urges Edinburgh’s council leaders to formally communicate with UK and Scottish ministers, as well as the royal household, to make clear that the city will not participate in any state visit involving Trump.
Although Trump has not announced specific plans to visit Edinburgh, reports suggest he is expected to travel to Scotland later this year, with a visit to his Aberdeenshire golf course likely.
His resort in Aberdeenshire recently made headlines after being vandalised by a pro-Palestinian activist group, highlighting the continued controversy surrounding his properties and presence in Scotland.
The Edinburgh City Council is set to discuss these motions in a full meeting on March 20, where councillors will debate the issue and determine the city’s official stance.
Donald Trump has been approached for comment.
