Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Parkland school shooting survivor David Hogg expressed his disapproval of former President Donald Trump’s new sneaker brand. The former president unveiled the line at “Sneaker Con” in Philadelphia, receiving a mixed reception considering his ongoing legal troubles. Trump’s New York civil trial resulted in a court order for him to pay $355 million for inflating the value of his assets for financial gain.
Hogg took to social media to share his response to Trump’s footwear, redirecting people to call their members of Congress. The activist, who survived a mass shooting in 2018, has been an outspoken advocate for gun control. The website he promoted redirects users to a gun violence prevention organization.
Meanwhile, Trump-branded sneakers, priced at $399 per pair, reportedly sold out quickly despite the hefty price tag. The official website states that the footwear is made to order, with some products not shipping until July or August at the earliest. It’s worth noting that the fine print on the website clarifies that the sneakers are not designed, manufactured, distributed, or sold by Donald J. Trump or The Trump Organization. Rather, they are produced under a licensing agreement. The website also emphasizes that the brand is not affiliated with any political campaign.
Hogg’s outspoken criticism of Trump’s sneaker line reflects the ongoing tension between the two figures, highlighting the intersection of politics, activism, and consumerism in American society. The immense popularity of the Trump-branded sneakers raises questions about the influence of celebrity, controversy, and branding in the modern marketplace. These developments serve as a reminder of the way in which political figures and public figures continue to impact various aspects of popular culture.