Trump’s $10,000 ‘Signature Edition’ Guitars: Is This the Future of Presidential Merchandise?
Once again, Donald Trump’s entrepreneurial flair is taking center stage as he releases his new branded guitars, including a “Signature Edition” model that costs $10,000. The president-elect has an extensive list of merchandise, ranging from $60 Bibles to $100,000 watches. And while his product line has attracted a lot of attention, it also raises questions about presidential branding and conflicts of interest that can come with it.
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The “Trump Guitars” collection includes a number of different models:
Prices for the base models start at $1,250 and the ‘Signature Edition’, with Trump’s signature, costs $10,000. According to The Associated Press, the “Limited Edition ’45’ Guitar” is an electric model with patriotic imagery, including an American flag and a bald eagle, with Trump’s “Make America Great Again” slogan inlaid on the neck.
Trump personally introduced the limited-edition guitars at Truth Social and posted a photo of himself holding one. This product launch follows a trend of high-end items launched by Trump during his third campaign in the White House, including NFTs, coins and sneakers.
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While the guitars have sparked curiosity, it’s not clear where their financial support comes from. According to ABC News, Trump has historically used licensing deals to monetize his brand. Products like guitars are generally sold through third-party companies, so Trump can profit from them without direct involvement in production or sales.
Trump has reportedly made millions from his licensing deals. CBS News reports that he has received $7.2 million from NFTs and $300,000 from Trump-branded Bibles. However, these schemes are often criticized for their lack of transparency.
Jordan Libowitz, vice president of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, told ABC News: “We have never seen such merchandise from the president. Tracking partners is difficult unless they come forward and there is no way to to be sure.”
Libowitz added that it is impossible to know whether Trump could use the power of his office to improve his bottom line without transparency about his business partners.
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Trump’s guitars are just the latest in a long line of branded products that have gained popularity among his supporters. Over the years, he’s marketed everything from steaks and cologne to digital trading cards and watches. According to ABC News, this approach represents an unprecedented convergence of political identity and consumer branding.
As with previous merchandise, critics have raised concerns about the price and perceived value of these items. For example, Libowitz argues that the $10,000 guitars and other expensive goods could create opportunities for individuals or entities to funnel money directly to Trump.
The expansion of Trump’s business empire raises ethical questions, especially as he prepares to take office again. Experts, including Public Citizen’s Robert Weissman, warn that the opaque nature of these licensing agreements could create potential conflicts of interest.
With few legal requirements to ensure transparency, watchdog groups worry about the potential for undue influence. ABC News notes that Trump is expected to hand over control of his companies to his sons upon his return to the White House, as he did during his first term. However, critics argue that this arrangement provides limited oversight.
The launch of Trump’s $10,000 guitars signals an ongoing evolution in presidential merchandising. Whether seen as innovative branding or cause for concern, the guitars demonstrate Trump’s enduring ability to leverage his personality for profit. As his presidency approaches, scrutiny of these companies is likely to intensify, shaping discussions at the intersection of politics, business and ethics.
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