Kathie Lee Gifford recounts harrowing danger thwarted by Trump
Recalling an unsettling episode from three decades ago, Kathie Lee Gifford recently shared how Donald Trump intervened to protect her from a potential attack.
During preparations for the Miss America pageant in 1993, Gifford was unknowingly the target of a threat that was successfully thwarted through quick interventions involving Trump, as the New York Post reports.
In 1993, the city of Atlantic City was bustling as it prepared to host the Miss America pageant. Gifford, a prominent television personality, was set to host.
However, beneath the glitz and glamour of the pageant lay a hidden danger that threatened to unravel the event.
FBI Warns of Imminent Threat
The ordeal began when Gifford's husband, Frank Gifford, received an alarming call from the FBI. Officials informed him of a grave threat against his wife's life.
“They said, ‘Mr. Gifford, we have a problem,’” Kathie Lee recalled, revealing the chilling warning of a dangerous individual targeting her.
Despite the precarious situation, federal authorities advised the Gifford family not to alter any planned activities, fearing that any change could tip off the stalker.
Trump Steps in to Protect Gifford
Concerned for his wife's safety, Frank Gifford reached out to Donald Trump, who was then the owner of the Miss America franchise. Upon learning about the threat, Trump reassured Frank Gifford that he would take immediate action, saying, “I’ve got your girls,” referring to Kathie Lee and their daughter.
Trump orchestrated discreet yet comprehensive security measures. He arranged helicopter transportation for Kathie Lee and deployed a team of security guards to watch over her.
One guard was specifically assigned to stand watch outside her hotel room for the entire week, ensuring around-the-clock protection.
Unaware of Looming Danger
Remarkably, Kathie Lee Gifford herself remained unaware of the threat for the duration of the pageant-related activities. In her recollection, she admitted, “I just never thought about it. Nobody said a word to me,” highlighting how the protective measures were effectively kept from her knowledge to prevent any distress or disruption.
The enormity of the danger became apparent to her through the press. She was shocked to see a newspaper headline with the words indicating a death threat against her -- an unexpected and shocking revelation.
Stalker Arrested as Safety Restored
The situation concluded positively when law enforcement captured the would-be assailant. An incident during a family movie outing saw the conclusion of this chapter.
While in the theater with her son, an FBI agent approached Kathie Lee to inform her of the capture. A sense of relief enveloped her, knowing the threat had been neutralized.
Reflections and Political Neutrality
Reflecting on the entire episode, Kathie Lee expressed mixed emotions about the relationship with Trump. "I would cringe at times," she admitted, reminiscing about Trump's occasional public antics. Still, she acknowledged, "That’s not the man I knew," underscoring her gratitude for his actions during the crisis.
Her approach to discussing this story publicly has been cautious. Influenced by a desire to maintain political neutrality, advisements from figures like Billy Graham have guided her in avoiding political entanglements, reflecting a wish to keep personal facts separate from political discourse.
A Complex Legacy
This seldom-told story of survival and support paints a complex picture of personal bravery, the swift response by law enforcement, and a willingness by prominent figures such as Trump to step in when safety is at risk.
Although the events transpired over 30 years ago, they remain a powerful reminder of the unseen dangers that can surface and the critical importance of vigilance and support in times of crisis.