The American Eagle Outfitters campaign featuring Sydney Sweeney debuted in July 2025 with the slogan “Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans.” The ad played on the pun between “genes” and “jeans,” showing Sweeney referencing traits like hair colour and eye colour before quipping, “My jeans are blue.” While intended to highlight denim style, the campaign quickly sparked backlash. Critics accused the ad of echoing racially loaded messages, and some even likened it to propaganda, prompting a heated cultural debate.
Sydney Sweeney’s Republican Registration
Amid the growing criticism, reports from reputable outlets, including The Guardian, confirmed that Sydney Sweeney registered as a Republican voter in Florida in June 2024. This came shortly after she purchased a home in the Florida Keys. Her political affiliation only came to light during the height of the controversy, making it a focal point for public discussion. The timing of the revelation intensified the media coverage and political reaction to the ad.
Donald Trump’s Response to the Revelation
President Donald Trump learned of Sweeney’s Republican registration while boarding Air Force One in Allentown, Pennsylvania, on August 3, 2025. Upon hearing the news, he told reporters, “Oh, now I love her ad.” Trump went on to say that he was glad to be told about her political affiliation and expressed his appreciation for the campaign. His reaction linked her voter registration to a public endorsement of both the actress and the American Eagle brand.
Trump’s Endorsement on Social Media
Trump later doubled down on his support through a Truth Social post, calling Sweeney’s work “the HOTTEST ad out there.” He said the jeans were “flying off the shelves” and encouraged the actress to “go get ’em, Sydney.” His comments drew additional attention to the campaign and boosted visibility for American Eagle, particularly among conservative audiences. The president’s endorsement became a central point in the evolving story.
Stock Market Impact
Following Trump’s comments, American Eagle’s stock saw a surge of nearly 25 percent, marking its biggest single-day increase since 2000. Analysts credited the rally to the unusual combination of controversy and high-profile political endorsement. While the backlash initially posed a reputational risk for the company, the influx of publicity appeared to benefit its financial performance. The situation became a case study in how political and cultural debates can influence brand value.
Political Reactions Beyond Trump
Other political figures also weighed in on the debate. Vice President JD Vance mocked Democrats on a conservative podcast, suggesting they were calling people Nazis simply for finding Sweeney attractive. White House communications manager Steven Cheung criticised the backlash as an example of “cancel culture run amok” and said it reflected why voters turned against Democrats in 2024. These responses framed the controversy as part of a broader political divide.
Celebrity and Pop Culture Commentary
Celebrities also joined the conversation. Singer Lizzo referenced Sweeney’s ad in her new song “I’m Goin’ In Till October,” joking about “good jeans” in her lyrics. The reference sparked further online conversation and memes about the campaign. Sweeney’s brother, Air Force staff sergeant Trent Sweeney, publicly supported her through social media, adding a personal touch to the ongoing public dialogue.
Sydney Sweeney’s Silence
Despite the intense attention, Sydney Sweeney has not publicly addressed either the ad controversy or her political affiliation. She has continued her professional commitments, including filming Season 3 of HBO’s “Euphoria” and attending the premiere of her independent film “Americana.” Her silence has left room for speculation while allowing the debate to unfold without her direct involvement.
Cultural Implications
Critics see the ad as perpetuating outdated beauty ideals, while supporters argue the backlash is an overreaction and a symptom of excessive political correctness. Marketing experts note that controversy can increase brand awareness, but it also risks alienating segments of the audience. In this case, the American Eagle campaign became a flashpoint in the intersection of fashion, politics and cultural values.
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