Bill O’Reilly Joins Trump’s Holiday Strategy Session: Tariffs, China, the Economy and More

O’Reilly finds himself advising Trump on policy issues.

O’Reilly had no idea why he was summoned to Mar-a-Lago, but as a self-described patriot, he felt that if the president wanted to talk, he’d show up. Even having known Trump for 35 years, O’Reilly admits that that the big guy doesn’t necessarily heed his advice on things and he had no clue what the meeting was about. Still, he flew to Miami with his son, drove to Palm Beach, and took Trump up on his promise of a free dinner. Once there, O’Reilly found himself in Trump’s second-floor office, unexpectedly seated in what he described as a “Cabinet meeting” with six of Trump’s advisors.

According to O’Reilly, Trump showed no signs of fatigue after a 12-hour day, diving deep into discussions about tariffs, Panama, Greenland, inflation, China’s Xi Jinping, Putin and other hot topics. Surprisingly, Trump asked for O’Reilly’s opinion on some things and O’Reilly complied – giving some opposite opinions on what others in the room were saying but keeping it light by saying, “Maybe you look at it this way…”

Trump’s inner circle: O’Reilly witnesses a leadership masterclass in action.

The meeting wasn’t just about policy though, according to O’Reilly, it was about preparation. Trump’s team engaged in a rapid-fire exchange of ideas, and O’Reilly was able to chime in as the historian-in- residence. The atmosphere was a blend of focus and camaraderie, with Trump’s seasoned experience on full display. For a man poised to begin a second term, O’Reilly remarked that the evening showcased Trump’s calculated approach to leadership, highlighting his recognition of a mandate from the American people and his determination to deliver on it.

O’Reilly said that Trump’s preparation and resolve are evident. With a clear vision for the future and a team of trusted advisors, the stage is set for a term that aims to deliver bold promises and transformative policies.

O’Reilly reflects on a fascinating evening with Trump.

O’Reilly said in his column, “For a historian, fascinating doesn’t even come close to describing this (meeting)…” He reiterated on his podcast show that it was the most “fascinating” evening of his life, politically speaking.