A campaign spokesperson for Donald Trump clarified on Monday that the former president did not buy a Glock firearm, despite an initial tweet suggesting otherwise during his visit to a gun store in South Carolina.
Trump’s visit to the store occurred before he was scheduled to give a speech in Summerville, S.C., on Monday afternoon. Initially, campaign spokesman Steven Cheung posted on X (formerly known as Twitter) that Trump had made a purchase of a Glock firearm.
Cheung also shared a video of Trump inside the firearm store, where the former president pointed to a firearm and stated, “I want to buy one.” Both Cheung’s video and a separate post by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) featured images of Trump posing with the gun.
During Trump’s visit to the store, he was accompanied by Greene and South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson (R), who, along with 12 others, had their endorsements highlighted by the Trump campaign earlier that Monday.
Who is Steven Cheung?
Steven Cheung, born on June 23, 1982, is an American political advisor with a rich and varied career in the realms of politics and communications. His journey in the political arena has been marked by a series of significant roles and contributions, showcasing his versatility and dedication.
Cheung embarked on his political career in California, where he gained valuable experience working in the administration of Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. This early exposure to the world of politics laid the foundation for his future endeavors.
He subsequently transitioned to the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., where he made his mark in the realm of political campaigns. One of his notable roles was during the John McCain presidential campaign, where he contributed his skills and insights to the campaign’s strategies.
Throughout his career, Cheung has been actively involved in various political campaigns, including those of prominent figures such as Steve Poizner for California governor, Sharron Angle for U.S. Senate, and Texas Lt. Governor David Dewhust for U.S. Senate. His ability to navigate the complex landscape of political campaigns has made him a sought-after strategist in the field.
In 2013, Cheung embarked on a new chapter of his career by joining the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in Las Vegas, Nevada. Here, he served as the “director of communications for public affairs,” demonstrating his adaptability by transitioning into the sports industry.
However, it was his pivotal role in the 2016 presidential campaign of Donald Trump that brought him significant attention. As the Director of Rapid Response, Cheung played a crucial role in ensuring the campaign remained informed about breaking news and effectively countered false or biased reporting.
Following Trump’s election victory, Cheung was called upon to serve in the Trump administration. He held the position of Special Assistant to the President and Assistant Communications Director, contributing to critical efforts such as the nomination and confirmation of Neil Gorsuch to the U.S. Supreme Court. His tenure also saw him assuming the role of Director of Strategic Response, where he played a key role in the passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017.
Within the White House, Cheung earned a reputation as one of “the killers,” a term used to describe individuals who were recognized for their innovative and action-oriented approach to their responsibilities.
Despite his impactful presence in the White House, Cheung’s departure in June 2018 coincided with a period of significant changes in the communication staff, orchestrated by Chief of Staff John F. Kelly.
Cheung’s commitment to politics and communications remained unwavering. He continued to be an active player in the political landscape, contributing his expertise to President Trump’s 2020 re-election campaign and playing a pivotal role in organizing the Republican National Convention, a task made all the more challenging by the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Beyond his association with the Trump campaign, Cheung lent his advisory prowess to the campaign of former Missouri Governor Eric Greitens during the 2022 U.S. Senate campaign. His strategic insights and experience were valuable assets in the dynamic world of political campaigns.
In a surprising turn of events, Cheung transitioned to advising reality star Caitlyn Jenner during the 2021 California gubernatorial recall election. While Jenner’s bid for governor did not ultimately succeed, Cheung’s willingness to adapt to unique political landscapes showcased his flexibility as an advisor.
In 2022, media outlets reported Cheung’s involvement as an advisor to cryptocurrency entrepreneur and philanthropist Brock Pierce, further expanding his portfolio and demonstrating his ability to navigate diverse industries.
