Donald Trump speaks as his son-in-law Jared Kushner (L), daughter Ivanka (2nd from L) and his wife Melania (R) listen at a campaign event on the day that several states held presidential primary elections, including California, at the Trump National Golf Club Westchester in Briarcliff Manor, New York. PHOTO: REUTERS
Kushner contacted Bourkoff, one of the media industry's top dealmakers, in the past few months, but there have been no further conversations, the source said on Monday. The source asked not to be identified because the discussions were private.
Behind Donald Trump, a son-in-law who is also an adviser
There was no reason given for LionTree's reluctance to participate in the process. The Financial Times first reported the LionTree talks earlier on Monday, citing sources.
Trump, the Republican US presidential nominee, told the Washington Post last month he had "no interest in a media company" and that reports he was considering setting up one were "a false rumor." He trails Democratic rival Hillary Clinton in opinion polls ahead of the November 8 election.
Kushner, the owner of the weekly New York Observer newspaper, is married to Trump's daughter Ivanka. Kushner did not respond to requests for comment. LionTree declined comment.
For Donald Trump, lessons from a brother's suffering
To set up a television network, Trump would have to negotiate with cable and satellite carriers, which can be an arduous task. It can then take years to turn a profit. Fox News Channel, the most-watched US cable network, took five years to be profitable.
It might be easier and less expensive for Trump to launch an online streaming service.
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