Trump didn't say emoluments clause was phony - he said the MSM's hysteria about his violating the emoluments clause was phony. As it is.
Since you felt the need to double post this....back at you:
Don't you ever get tired of reinterpreting Trump's utterances? He said..what he said..and that is what he said. No special interpretation needed.
It seems that every time Trump opens his mouth...his adherents have to parse his words..to find the sweet spot of ignorance that soothes..rather than the glaring spotlight of literal comment...that destroys their comfortable illusions.
Yes, his detractors are guilty as well..of taking the worst possible interpretation..and running with it. Although I don't see why...Trump's habit of 'doubling down' on his mishaps...does him no good at all.