Scotland Mocks Trump – With Humor, Sharpness and Bagpipes

A Unique Scottish Resistance to Trump’s Visit

Scots are known for their wit, humor, and a deep sense of identity. This weekend, as President Donald Trump made his way through Scotland, the nation responded with a blend of creativity, sarcasm, and a touch of rebellion. From witty placards to blaring bagpipes, the protests against Trump took on a distinctly Scottish flavor, reflecting the country's long-standing cultural and political values.

In central Aberdeen, near the statue of William Wallace, an activist set up a desk draped in a U.S. flag that read “sorry.” The sign was a symbolic gesture of apology for America’s “failings,” and passersby were invited to engage in unscripted conversations about the country’s actions. Joseph DeLappe, who has lived in Scotland for nearly nine years, described these interactions as acts of connection, resistance, and atonement.

Trump, a figure well-known for drawing crowds and controversy, found himself in a different kind of spotlight during his five-day private visit. He played golf on his Turnberry course and met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Plans also included meetings with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Scottish First Minister John Swinney.

The Scottish newspaper the National didn’t hold back, featuring a front page that read, “Convicted US felon to arrive in Scotland.” This bold statement reflected the strong sentiments among many Scots toward the former president.

On Saturday, hundreds of anti-Trump protesters gathered in Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and Dumfries. Protests were planned for Aberdeenshire on Monday. The signs carried by demonstrators showcased a unique blend of Scottish culture and political messaging. One protester playing bagpipes held a sign that read, “Pipe down Donald.” Others used local slang, such as “Nae Trump” or referring to Trump as a “radge,” which means wild or crazy.

Some signs paid homage to Scottish icons or referenced pop culture. Children were seen holding signs like “Keep orange fizzy, not fascist,” referencing Irn-Bru, a popular Scottish soft drink. Many also referenced the late comedian Janey Godley, whose anti-Trump sign became a symbol of resistance.

Protesters blocked from accessing Trump’s Turnberry course turned to the coast, where they wrote messages in the sand, including “Get Trump Out” and “Free Palestine.” Alena Ivanova, a lead organizer of the Aberdeen rally, said the protests reflected a deep-seated revulsion to Trump’s politics. The Stop Trump Coalition, which organized the event, advocates for issues like climate change, migrants’ rights, and Palestinian solidarity.

More than 1,000 people gathered outside the U.S. Consulate in Edinburgh to express their disapproval of Trump. Jack Nevin, who organized the event, noted that one sign captured the sentiment perfectly: “Scotland hated Trump before it was cool.” The Trump organization has faced criticism in Scotland over its golf courses for over a decade, and this visit reignited those tensions.

Despite the protests, Trump has supporters in parts of Scotland, particularly in Turnberry, where he is seen as beneficial to the local economy. Some fans even waved pictures of Trump alongside Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender who died in prison. Others wore costumes inspired by The Handmaid’s Tale, highlighting concerns over reproductive rights.

This weekend’s protests were smaller compared to when Trump visited Scotland during his first term, and there were no giant inflatables like the famous “Trump baby blimp.” However, the spirit of resistance remained strong.

Many Scots remain skeptical of Trump. An Ipsos survey from March found that 71 percent of Scots hold an unfavorable opinion of him. Scotland is also his ancestral home, as his mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, was born on the Isle of Lewis. During this trip, Trump was expected to open a new golf course in her honor.

Even on Lewis, views are mixed. A banner reading “Shame on you, Donald John” has been making its way around the island, displayed at homes and private properties. Sarah Grussing, the banner’s creator, explained that the wording was chosen as a form of family-style admonishment.

Alasdair Allan, a member of the Scottish Parliament representing the region, gave a characteristically Scottish response when asked about public sentiment. He acknowledged that views vary but suggested that many locals would find Trump lacking in qualities valued in Scotland, such as modesty, compassion, and a sense of humor.