Fact-Check: "Convicted US Felon to Arrive in Scotland"
What We Know
On July 25, 2025, the Scottish newspaper The National published a front-page headline stating, "Convicted US felon to arrive in Scotland." This headline coincided with former President Donald Trump's visit to Scotland for trade talks and golf. The article included a subheading that read, "Republican leader, who was found liable for sexual abuse and defamation, will visit golf courses" (source-1).
Trump was convicted on May 30, 2024, by a Manhattan jury on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to hush-money payments made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels (source-3). Although he received an "unconditional discharge" sentence on January 10, 2025, meaning he faced no prison time, probation, or fines, the conviction remains on his record (source-4).
The National's official X account (formerly Twitter) confirmed the headline, stating, "Tomorrow's front page. Convicted US felon to arrive in Scotland" (source-5). The newspaper's coverage sparked significant reactions, particularly from Trump supporters, prompting a journalist from The National to challenge them by asking, "Which part is factually inaccurate?" (source-6).
Analysis
The claim that The National referred to Trump as a "convicted US felon" is substantiated by multiple sources. The publication's front page indeed featured this headline, which accurately reflects Trump's legal status following his conviction. The National is recognized for its factual reporting, having been rated "High" for factual accuracy by Media Bias/Fact Check, although it is noted to have a left-center bias in its editorial stance.
The sources used to verify this claim include reputable news outlets and the official publication itself. For instance, Yahoo News and Snopes both confirmed the accuracy of the headline and provided context regarding Trump's legal issues. The coverage by these outlets is consistent and corroborated by the original source, The National, which adds to the reliability of the information.
While The National may have a left-leaning bias, this does not detract from the factual nature of the headline. The description of Trump as a "convicted US felon" is legally accurate based on his conviction, and the newspaper's decision to use this terminology aligns with journalistic standards of reporting facts.
Conclusion
The claim that The National published a headline stating "Convicted US felon to arrive in Scotland" is True. The headline accurately reflects Donald Trump's legal status following his conviction and is supported by credible sources. The reporting by The National, despite its editorial bias, is factually correct and provides necessary context regarding Trump's visit to Scotland.
Sources
- Scottish newspaper headline about Trump visit referred to ...
- Fact Check: Scottish newspaper's headline about Trump ...
- Fact Check: Did Scottish newspaper headline about Trump's ...
- ‘They should be grateful!’ Trump can't get over this Scottish ...
- Scottish newspaper headline about Trump visit referred to him ...
- Convicted U.S. Felon Lands in Scotland”: Trump’s Visit Sparks ...
- The National – Scotland – Bias and Credibility
