President-elect Donald Trump has once again sparked controversy, this time through a guitar brand touting his endorsement. Trump Guitars, which claims to offer the “only guitar officially endorsed by President Donald J. Trump,” is under fire after guitar manufacturing giant Gibson issued a cease-and-desist order, alleging trademark infringement on its iconic Les Paul body shape.
The guitars, marketed as part of an “American Eagle Series,” feature bold pro-Trump imagery. With Trump’s campaign slogan “Make America Great Again” inlaid on the neck in pearl and the number “45” stamped on the headstock, the branding has captivated both fans and critics alike. Prices for the instruments range from $1,250 for unsigned models to over $10,000 for guitars signed by Trump himself, with only 275 autographed units available.
While Trump holding one of these guitars on the company’s homepage might suggest a personal connection, the reality is far more strategic—and lucrative. Trump Guitars most likely operates under a licensing and endorsement agreement brokered through their branding agency with Trump’s Corporation. This arrangement allows Trump to profit without any personal liability. In other words, the President-elect likely never oversaw the hijacking of the guitar design. Instead, he reviewed the deal, signed off, and laughed his way to the bank.
This isn’t the first time Trump has legally sidestepped his way to success amid controversy. The Gibson case parallels the licensing disputes Trump has faced with musicians opposing his use of their songs at campaign rallies. Thanks to a BMI political entities license, Trump’s campaign lawfully played music despite artist objections. The lesson? Understanding the system pays off, especially when the narrative can be spun as yet another “rigged” attack.
The Gibson cease-and-desist, which some media outlets have spun as a scandal, is effectively free advertising for Trump. Curious researchers digging into the case will find not a rogue businessman flouting the law, but a masterful exploitation of branding loopholes. For critics hoping to score points against Trump, this situation only reinforces his narrative as a savvy businessman playing by the rules others fail to understand.
While Gibson defends its intellectual property, Trump Guitars remains a savvy marketing tool, tapping into patriotism with finishes like the “Presidential Series” in red, black, and gold. Despite claims of being an American-made product, the guitars are reportedly manufactured by multiple providers, including international suppliers—a detail critics may pounce on, but one that won’t deter the MAGA faithful.
Trump’s involvement in this branding venture, like so many others, is a testament to his ability to turn controversy into cash. Whether it’s licensing deals or political rally playlists, Trump’s mastery of the system ensures that every headline—positive or negative—adds value to his brand.
For fans, these guitars are a collector’s item. For critics, they’re another reason to groan. For Trump? It’s just another winning deal.
