Before Donald Trump praised Alabama Republican Jeff Sessions as a “fantastic man” and “one of the most highly respected people in the United States Senate,” the New York businessman actually contributed money to the senator’s Democratic rival.
CNBC reported this week that in 2002, Trump gave $1,000 to Alabama State Auditor Susan Parker, who was running against Sessions that year.
Not only did Trump give Parker money — but the “Friends of Susan Parker” fundraiser was held at Trump Tower on Oct. 4, 2002.
The Daily Caller has attempted to reach Parker through email.
According to CNBC, Democratic Sen. Hillary Clinton was expected to attend that event. Before becoming a Republican, Trump also donated money to Clinton, who he will face in November’s general election.
Donald Trump introduces Alabama Senator Jeff Sessions during his rally at Ladd-Peebles Stadium on August 21, 2015 in Mobile, Alabama. (Photo by Mark Wallheiser/Getty Images)
Flash-forward 14 years later, Sessions has become Trump’s closest ally on Capitol Hill. Recently, Trump even acknowledged that Sessions, who shares an interest in immigration and trade with the candidate, would be considered for vice president.
“Jeff Sessions certainly is somebody that I would consider, absolutely,” Trump said. “He’s a fantastic person.”