A contributor on Fox News recently floated the idea that Black voters might throw their support behind Donald Trump in the upcoming 2024 election due to their purported fondness for sneakers.
During a segment on The Big Weekend Show, Raymond Arroyo discussed the limited-edition sneakers priced at $399, which Trump showcased at Sneaker Con in Philadelphia over the weekend.
These sneakers, dubbed the “Never Surrender High-Tops,” boast a shiny gold finish with an American flag detail on the back and quickly sold out on a newly launched website that also features other Trump-branded footwear, cologne, and perfume.
Arroyo suggested that the appeal of these sneakers transcends politics and resonates particularly with Black communities, stating, “This is connecting with Black America because they love sneakers.” He emphasized that Trump’s venture into the sneaker market symbolizes a deeper connection with the culture, surpassing mere political affiliations. Arroyo asserted, “He’s reaching them on a level that defies and is above politics. The culture always trumps politics. And Trump understands culture like no politician I’ve ever seen.”
Donald Trump (Credits: FOX 13 Memphis)
When questioned about the potential impact on Trump’s electoral prospects, Arroyo remarked, “Anybody willing to put 400 bucks down for a pair of sneakers? Yeah, I think that’s commitment and love. It’s something… it’s affection.”
Trump, who is currently the leading candidate for the Republican presidential nomination, launched these gold sneakers amidst mounting legal challenges, including four criminal indictments and a recent court order to pay $355 million in penalties for alleged financial misconduct.
Nevertheless, the Trump-branded sneakers, advertised as “a true collector’s item” with only 1,000 pairs produced, quickly sold out after their debut at Sneaker Con. Subsequently, some pairs have appeared on eBay with asking prices in the thousands of dollars, sparking controversy.
Described as “bold, gold, and tough, just like President Trump,” the sneakers are marketed towards “go-getters who don’t know the word quit.” Despite the political implications of the Trump brand, the website selling the sneakers maintains that it is not affiliated with any political campaign and is operated by CIC Ventures LLC, a company listed in Trump’s 2023 financial disclosure.
The website emphasizes that the venture is strictly apolitical, aiming to appeal to sneaker enthusiasts irrespective of their political leanings.
