In a series of lighthearted Christmas Eve calls, former US President Donald Trump offered children an unconventional perspective on a classic holiday threat: a stocking full of coal. Participating in the long-standing NORAD Tracks Santa tradition from his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, on December 24, 2025, Trump and former First Lady Melania Trump spoke with several youngsters across the United States.
'Clean, Beautiful Coal' for Christmas?
The most memorable exchange occurred with an eight-year-old girl from Kansas. When asked what she wanted from Santa, the child quickly replied, "Uh, not coal." Seizing the moment, Trump responded with a signature line from his political campaigns, asking, "You mean clean, beautiful coal?"
According to an Associated Press report, Trump then laughed and added, "I had to do that, I’m sorry." His comment even drew a grin from Melania Trump, who was on a separate call. The former president went on to instruct the young caller, "Coal is clean and beautiful. Please remember that, at all costs." Ultimately, the girl confirmed she would prefer a Barbie doll, clothes, and candy, to which Trump humorously advised, "Well, candy is good... you eat as much as you want. Be healthy, okay?"
Tracking Santa and Warning of a 'Bad Santa'
In another call with two sisters, ten-year-old Jennifer and four-year-old Anastasia from Oklahoma, Trump framed the NORAD mission in his characteristic style. He told the children that the military was ensuring Santa's goodness and safety during his global journey.
"We track Santa all over the world. We want to make sure that Santa is being good," Trump said. "We want to make sure that he’s not infiltrated, that we’re not infiltrating into our country a bad Santa." He reassured them that Santa was indeed good and loved Oklahoma, before promising the girls "the most beautiful doll house you’ve ever seen."
A Jovial Mood and Cookie Advice
The festive calls showcased a more jovial side of the former president, a contrast to some of his past Christmas messages which targeted political opponents. When an eight-year-old from North Carolina asked if Santa would be angry if no cookies were left out, Trump offered a diplomatic answer.
He said he didn't think Santa would be mad, "But I think he’ll be very disappointed." Trump then joked about Santa's physique, saying, "You know, Santa’s — he tends to be a little bit on the cherubic side. You know what cherubic means? A little on the heavy side. I think Santa would like some cookies."
Trump appeared to enjoy the interactions, stating he "could do this all day long," but noted he likely had to return to more pressing matters, such as efforts concerning the war in Ukraine. This year's participation marked a cheerful departure in tone, focusing on holiday spirit and playful banter with America's children.
