U.S. President Donald Trump has added a fragrance line to his growing roster of merchandise, unveiling the “Victory 45-47” cologne and perfume for men and women on 30 June through his Truth Social account. The 100-millilitre bottles, topped with a gold figurine of the president, retail for $249 and are marketed as embodying “winning, strength and success.” The name references Trump’s non-consecutive terms as the 45th and 47th U.S. president.
Online promotions offer a $100 discount for shoppers who buy two bottles and direct customers to an earlier “Fight, Fight, Fight” collection priced at $199. Fine print on the sales website states the scents are produced under licence and are “not designed, manufactured, distributed or sold” by Trump or the Trump Organization, although the president would receive licensing income.
The rollout drew immediate fire from ethics advocates and Democratic lawmakers. Senators Mark Warner of Virginia and Peter Welch of Vermont accused Trump of using the presidency for personal gain while Congress debates a budget plan that would trim health-care benefits. The White House declined to comment on the criticism, Reuters reported.
Fragrances are the latest in a series of Trump-branded consumer products introduced during his second term, following gold sneakers, a $499 “Trump Mobile” service and a “God Bless the USA” Bible. Trump says his business interests are held in a family trust, but the new venture has renewed questions about conflicts of interest and the financial benefits he stands to reap from the presidential bully pulpit.
The new perfumes of the tycoon and full-time president join other products of Trump's personal brand, described by his detractors as a clear example of a conflict of interest.
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