Richard Branson: Trump ‘would be a disaster’

Billionaire entrepreneur Richard Branson says Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump does not deserve to occupy the White House.

“This is a U.S. election but far more than that: the vote will have major implications on the rest of the world,” the Virgin Group’s founder said in a statement on the company’s website Friday.

{mosads}“What that in mind, I wanted to share my view on why a Donald Trump presidency would be a disaster,” added Branson, who supports Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton.

“There are too many examples of Mr. Trump’s lack of empathy and respect to name. I agree with many on both sides of America’s political aisle that he is unfit for office.”

Branson also disputed Trump’s economic knowledge, arguing the real estate tycoon is “irrational, aggressive, and he lacks informed ideas on how to grow jobs in America.”

“Great entrepreneurs build businesses with purpose at their heart and always treat people with respect,” he said. “These are not characteristics I see in Mr. Trump – neither in his previous business dealings, nor in his campaign.

“America was built upon a collective embracing of diversity and openness – not division and close-mindedness. An entrepreneur president would put that at the heart of his plans and yet [Trump’s] fear-based campaign blames immigrants and open borders.”

Branson added he considered Clinton a worthy successor to President Obama.

“From his views on foreign affairs to economics, from healthcare to immigration, President Obama understands that listening, careful balancing of interests and openness to other opinions are essential,” he said.

“Whether you agree with all of his policies or not, he treats people with respect, humility and common sense. I feel confident Hillary Clinton would continue on the same path.”

Trump has repeatedly touted his business background on the campaign trail, arguing it makes up for his political inexperience.

Clinton leads Trump by about 7 points in the latest RealClearPolitics average of national polls.