Trump launches sneaker line a day after judge’s order to pay nearly $355 million

World 18 February, 2024 13:07

Former President Donald Trump on Saturday launched a sneaker line, a day after he and his companies were ordered by a judge to pay nearly $355 million in his New York civil fraud trial.

The former president unveiled “Trump Sneakers” at Sneaker Con in Philadelphia. He placed a pair of gold sneakers, which a new website has listed for $399 and named the “NEVER SURRENDER HIGH-TOP SNEAKER,” on the podium as he spoke.

“This is something I’ve been talking about for 12 years, 13 years, and I think it’s going to be a big success,” said Trump, who is marching closer toward the 2024 Republican nomination and a potential rematch with President Joe Biden.

The former president is also selling two versions of sneakers that have “T” and “45” on the sides for $199, according to the website. Cologne and perfume are for sale at $99 each.

According to the website, the products are “trademarks of CIC Ventures LLC. Trump Sneakers are not designed, manufactured, distributed or sold by Donald J. Trump, The Trump Organization or any of their respective affiliates or principals. 45Footwear, LLC uses the Trump name, image and likeness under a license agreement.”

Biden campaign spokesperson Michael Tyler slammed Trump’s appearance at Sneaker Con. “Donald Trump showing up to hawk bootleg Off-Whites is the closest he’ll get to any Air Force Ones ever again for the rest of his life,” he said, referring to popular sneakers from brands Off-White and Nike.

Following his appearance at Sneaker Con, Trump is expected to head to Michigan to address supporters for the first time since the rulings in separate New York cases thrust into the spotlight the legal peril he faces on multiple fronts.

On Thursday, a New York state judge confirmed that the former president’s criminal trial in a hush money case will begin March 25. A day later, Trump and his companies were ordered to pay nearly $355 million for fraudulently inflating the values of his properties. Combined with the $83 million judgment issued against Trump for defaming E. Jean Carroll, the 2024 Republican front-runner has been fined roughly $438 million over the past four weeks.

Trump’s Michigan visit is timed for 10 days before the state holds its Republican primary. The Wolverine State is the final February contest before the GOP nominating fight expands to more than two dozen states in March.