Former President Donald Trump has publicly voiced his support for actress Sydney Sweeney following backlash over a recent commercial she starred in.
In a post on his social media platform, Trump praised the 27-year-old actress, calling her a “registered Republican” and commending the ad as “the HOTTEST out there.” The endorsement came after critics scrutinized Sweeney’s role in an American Eagle campaign featuring a play on words involving “genes” and “jeans.”
The advertisement, which launched in late July, shows Sweeney discussing genetic traits before pivoting to the brand’s denim. Some viewers accused the campaign of echoing themes linked to eugenics, sparking heated debate online. American Eagle defended the ad, stating it was solely about their jeans and intended to celebrate individuality.
Despite the controversy, the campaign has proven financially successful, with the company’s stock surging by as much as 20% after Trump’s remarks. Marketing experts noted that the social media frenzy—whether positive or negative—has amplified the ad’s reach far beyond traditional advertising.
Sweeney, known for her roles in Euphoria and The White Lotus, has not publicly addressed the backlash or confirmed her political affiliation. Records indicate she registered as a Republican in Florida earlier this year, though she has previously dismissed attempts to politicize her personal life.
The discussion around the ad has also drawn attention from conservative commentators, who see it as an inadvertent boost for Republican visibility. Meanwhile, Trump’s vocal support has further fueled the conversation, reinforcing the intersection of pop culture and politics.
As the debate continues, American Eagle maintains that the campaign was never intended to carry political undertones, emphasizing its focus on fashion and self-expression. Whether the controversy will have a lasting impact remains to be seen, but for now, it has certainly kept the brand—and Sweeney—in the spotlight.
