Donald Trump hints at presidential run as he comes out against gay marriage

US billionaire, star of ‘The Apprentice’ and Miss USA owner Donald Trump said on Tuesday he is not in favour of gay marriage, and is “incredibly tempted” to run for US president in 2012.

In an interview with Greta Van Susteren on Fox News, Mr Trump said: “I live in New York. New York is a place with lots of gays, and I think it’s great but I’m not in favour of gay marriage.”

Mr Trump, a registered Republican, did not give his reasons for opposing same-sex marriage, but said: “I’m a very conservative person. I’m very big into [sic] the military. I’m a great guy for defence. I’m probably as conservative as anybody on your show, and that’s probably going a very big step.” He also said he is “pro-life” and does not support abortion.

In 2009, he dismissed Miss California Carrie Prejean, an outspoken opponent of same-sex marriage, for “failing to attend engagements”, but Prejean insisted it was because of her stance on same-sex marriage.

Mr Trump also criticised Obama’s economic policy that promotes international trade, and said America is “rebuilding China single-handedly” at the expense of the economy. He said: “Obama is not stupid, but could be a foolish man, and is certainly heavily lobbied.”

Mr Trump said he would make a decision on running for president by June, and added: “I love this country, [but] I hate what’s happening to this country.”