Calling attention to a bit of bad news, or an outrageous statement, in a typical news day during the Trump Administration is rather like pointing out a grain of sand at the beach.
But given that tor day is Labor Day one particular item stands out. The giant glowering portrait of Trump, hung on a banner on the department of labor, with the words, “American Workers First.”
It is to laugh.
To say that Trump is putting workers first is like saying Fire ants will put your comfort first. Among the many awful things Trump has done, he has rarely missed an opportunity to stiff workers who did work for him, refusing to pay their bills and suing them if they challenge him.
Here’s a rundown of some of the most egregious cases where Donald Trump or his companies failed to pay workers or contractors for completed work. These cases span decades and industries—from construction to hospitality:
Trump Taj Mahal (1990) New Jersey regulators found that Trump failed to pay at least 253 subcontractors in full or on time during the casino’s construction.
Edward J. Friel Company (1984)A Philadelphia cabinet-maker completed a $400,000 contract at Harrah’s Trump Plaza but was never paid the final $83,600. The unpaid bill contributed to the company’s eventual collapse.
Plainview HVAC Company (1980s–2000s)Filed a $75,000 lien for unpaid work. One of over 200 mechanic’s liens filed against Trump properties by contractors claiming unpaid dues.
New York Real Estate Banking FirmFiled a $1 million lien against Trump for unpaid services—one of the largest single claims documented.
Trump National Doral Miami (Recent Years)48 servers sued for unpaid overtime after working a 10-day Passover event. The average settlement per worker was just $800.
Doral Painter LawsuitA Florida judge ordered foreclosure and sale of part of the resort to pay a painter over $30,000 for work done more than two years prior.
Hourly Workers at Resorts & ClubsDozens of bartenders, dishwashers, and waitstaff across Trump properties alleged unpaid wages or withheld overtime.
Fair Labor Standards Act Citations (2005–2016)Trump Plaza and Trump Mortgage LLC were cited 24 times for failing to pay minimum wage or overtime. Both companies settled by agreeing to pay back wages.
These cases reflect a consistent pattern: aggressive negotiation tactics, delayed payments, and frequent litigation—even over relatively small amounts.
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