The recent endorsement of Kamala Harris by Scotland’s First Minister has sparked criticism from Donald Trump’s Scottish business interests, who have labeled it an “insult.” John Swinney has encouraged American voters to support the current Vice President as she faces Trump, who is vying for a second term in the upcoming election on November 5.

Trump International, which operates his golf courses in both Ayrshire and Aberdeenshire, expressed discontent with Swinney’s comments, arguing that they undermine Trump’s substantial financial contributions to Scotland. Current polls show Harris with a slight lead, projected to gather around 48% of the vote, while results from swing states remain too close to call.

During a press conference at the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh, Swinney stated that Americans should back Harris and noted that his position was not solely influenced by Trump’s opposition to Scottish independence. In response, Sarah Malone of Trump International Scotland highlighted the family’s significant investment in the Scottish economy, claiming they have contributed hundreds of millions of dollars and attracted numerous international visitors each year. She criticized Swinney for what she described as a disrespectful dismissal of this commitment and the efforts of those working in Scotland’s service sector.

Malone also pointed out that Trump-owned businesses provide employment for approximately 600 individuals in Scotland. Trump International operates the Menie golf course near Aberdeen and plans to open another course soon. Although Trump transferred management of these courses to his sons just before assuming the presidency in 2017, he still retains a financial stake.

In October, Trump expressed his views on Scottish independence during an interview on a podcast, stating his desire for the United Kingdom to remain united. He recalled past attempts to separate Scotland from England and referred to the narrow margin that kept it together during historical votes.

In the 2014 referendum on independence, Scotland voted against separation by a margin of 55% to 45%. Trump also reminisced about his mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, who grew up on the Isle of Lewis, praising the resilience and character of the Scottish people.

Previously appointed as a GlobalScot ambassador by former First Minister Jack McConnell in 2006, Trump was later deemed “no longer fit” for this role by a spokesperson from the Scottish government. Recently, Trump’s campaign lodged a complaint with the Federal Election Commission against the UK Labour Party for alleged foreign interference related to their support for Harris. This legal matter is expected to advance to federal court following actions taken by Musk’s legal team.