Mary-Therese, 75, Michael Boulos’ grandmother, couldn’t hold back her tears of joy at her home in Kfaraakka, northern Lebanon, when she heard the news of her grandson-in-law Donald Trump’s victory in the US presidential election.
Michael is married to Trump’s daughter Tiffany.
Mary-Therese followed the election closely on TV and stayed in touch with her children in the US, who were actively involved in the campaign.
The Boulos family, some traveling from Kfaraakka, worked hard to support Trump’s victory. Michael’s father, Massad, played a key role in connecting with the Arab community, especially in Michigan, securing votes from Lebanese Americans.
Massad was joined in his efforts by his sister, Michael’s sibling, and his sister Viviane and her daughter. Michael’s fourth sibling, Philippe, couldn’t participate due to business commitments in Africa and Lebanon.
As family friend Dr. Lily Mleha Fayyad shared, it’s common for Trump to involve his family in his campaigns.
The residents of Koura celebrated Trump’s victory, feeling connected through Michael. Well-wishers filled the family’s home, and the phone never stopped ringing.
“We were so happy when Michael and Tiffany married,” said Marlene from Kfaraakka.
“We were proud to see his father, Massad, on TV, especially for his efforts in convincing the Arab community to support Trump. We hope to see him as a US envoy to Lebanon soon, helping bring peace, as promised.”
Few in Kfaraakka know Michael personally, as he was born in Lebanon, raised in Nigeria, and educated in the US, but always spent his vacations in Lebanon.
“We’d see him visit with his family, but we know Massad well,” Marlene added. “He grew up here, and everyone loves him for his kind and friendly personality.”
Fayyad praised Massad as “a devoted son” who took great care of his parents, especially his father before he passed away 12 years ago.
“He’s a great example of a dutiful son, which earned him the respect of everyone around him.”
In Kfaraakka, locals admire the Boulos family for their closeness. Massad and his wife, Sara Zuhair Fadoul, along with their children, Fares, Michael, Sophie and Oriane, continue to visit Lebanon despite living in Lagos.
“They’re a humble, kind family, not like the nouveau riche,” said Fayyad.
“Their doors are always open, and they have a special place in their neighbors’ hearts,” she added.
