Ex-Trump Official Goes to Resorts International

Jack O’Donnell, who quit as Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino president because of a dislike for Donald J. Trump, was named to run Merv Griffin’s Resorts Casino Hotel.

O’Donnell, 35, was appointed executive vice president and chief operating officer of Griffin’s Resorts Casino Hotel by Resorts International, the parent corporation. O’Donnell replaces Al Luciani, who resigned to pursue other interests. Luciani could not be reached for comment.

O’Donnell said Resorts, which recently reorganized under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, has a strong future. He cited the casino’s refurbishment and his expectation of a resurgence in flat gaming profits in Atlantic City.

In addition, O’Donnell said Resorts’ recent emergence from bankruptcy has left it in a good position to move forward while other casinos struggle with massive debt. He said the presence of Trump’s glittery Taj Mahal Casino Resort next door could attract customers to Resorts but is not essential to its profitability. Trump traded Resorts for the Taj Mahal in 1988.