Tuesday, May 31, 2016

The Trump University Documents

I hope the judge didn't compromise the proceedings by releasing documents because that is a problem for any appeal by the plaintiffs. If the Trump organization believes their position was compromised because the documents were released they may have a reason to appeal.

That said:

How many of the Trump University enrollees actually are participating in the lawsuit. How many students attended and graduated and how many didn't graduate? Are those filling the lawsuit people that graduated? Would they feel comfortable coming forward to speak to the media? Are there people who benefited from their enrollment?

The reason for the request of the numbers is to determine the percentage of successful candidates compared to other similar learning venues. We have had a great number of unsuccessful schools in the USA that received federal funds for tuition. Not all those schools delivered on jobs/success.

There probably are graduates that have done well. By releasing the documents their position may be compromised. There is also the issue that the curriculum will be duplicated by others. TU's (Trump University) brand is about the exclusivity of the curriculum. 

The definition of success by the Trump University is important as well. I think statistics are important simply because it clarifies the claims by people who obviously feels they weren't served well by their enrollment. 

The reason to conceal the documents may not have come from Donald Trump, but, his lawyers. I am assuming he listens to lawyers. Perhaps not. The proceedings were not reported by the media as if there were hearings, so I have to assume the dialogue regarding this Trump enterprise is taking place between the lawyers and the judge and not necessarily in open court.

Congratulations to the Washington Post for taking the lead on this issue. I hope the public will be satisfied with the media's coverage. 

There is no way of knowing for sure what the backlash will be regarding this, if I were a candidate I'd be cautious about the rhetoric. But, that is me. I believe in the truth and I think it is prudent to have the court come to a conclusion before espousing any lessons from this episode of the Trump enterprise.