Donald Trump's Mug Shot Turned into Cash Cow

By Web Desk, August 26, 2023

Trump's mug shot turned into cash cow by allies and adversaries
Image Source: AFP/File

The mug shot of former US President Donald Trump, taken as he faced arrest on multiple felony charges, has become a sought-after commodity for profit-making ventures. The image of Trump, featuring his signature red tie, slick hair, and stern expression, is now being featured on T-shirts, mugs, posters, and even bobblehead dolls.

Both supporters and campaign managers are utilizing the image to rally support, claiming that the charges against him are politically motivated. Conversely, critics interpret the photo as symbolic of Donald Trump's legal troubles catching up to him.

Donald Trump's "Save America" fundraising committee is capitalizing on the mug shot by selling "NEVER SURRENDER!" T-shirts for $34.00, along with beverage holders and coffee mugs. His son, Don Jr., is also joining in with "FREE TRUMP" T-shirts and posters featuring the image.

On the other end of the political spectrum, the Lincoln Project, an anti-Trump group founded by Republicans, is selling shot glasses with the mug shot and the slogan "FAFO" (an acronym for "F*** Around and Find Out"). Various mocking products are also emerging on platforms like Etsy, including a parody Taylor Swift concert T-shirt.

Even a Los Angeles t-shirt store, unrelated to any campaign, is joining the trend by selling tops adorned with the mug shot.

Political strategists predict that this image could significantly boost fundraising efforts for the Republican candidate. Some believe that his passionate supporters will enthusiastically purchase merchandise featuring the image, thereby contributing to his campaign's finances.

However, questions linger about the legal rights concerning the reproduction of the mug shot. While mug shots taken by US federal courts usually fall within the public domain, state policies may differ. Some US states have "right of publicity" laws, and federal trademark law also imposes restrictions on using someone's image for commercial purposes.

The domain of political parody goods might provide a degree of protection from legal claims. Nonetheless, experts suggest that any legal action Trump takes would likely be more strategic than based on solid legal grounds. With the distinct pose in the mug shot reminiscent of his signature stance on "The Apprentice," the image has become a potent emblem for both allies and opponents alike.