In a New York Times column, fashion critic Vanessa Friedman outlined why we pay attention to how politicians dress. “There’s a reason we call it the ‘national stage’ and the ‘political stage,'” she writes. “No matter what the institution, pomp and circumstance have always been part of the pageantry of government. And costume is an essential part of any pageant. It is woven into the creation and communication of character. Through their clothes, politicians send messages about who they are and what they do or do not represent. If politicians are informed by what they wear, looking at the people who make, sell, buy, and travel with campaign merchandise can also provide a unique glimpse into a campaign’s grassroots supporters. It will be. In this case, it also provides insight into the different motivations that drive Trump’s most loyal supporters.
At one stand, a woman chooses between two fancy $350 handmade jackets, one spelling out “Make America Great Again” and the other reading “Faith over Fear.” . The seller, former Iowa delegate Deborah Yanna, attracted a surprising celebrity following when Alina Haba, one of Trump’s lawyers, borrowed Yanna’s jacket to wear at the RNC. Yanna primarily visited Long Island for the America First Patriotic Designer Showcase. The showcase was a MAGA-themed fashion show, separate from the bazaar that was held as a bonus to New York Fashion Week the night before the rally.
Another pair, Michael and Crystal, met as groupies in bands like Dead & Company and Phish. Crystal has spent her career selling tour merchandise, but a friend encouraged her to follow the Trump campaign. Crystal, who calls herself a hippie, would definitely vote for Trump, she said. “I think everyone here is a Trump supporter. They (vendors) know they can make money here, but they also support President Trump,” Crystal said.
The atmosphere at the pop-up marketplace was partly festive. Some characters are painted with fanfare and Instagram-worthy patriotic glamour, such as Sarah Brady’s handmade ball gown worn at the MAGA fashion show. In an interview, Brady said he is passionate about sustainability and is a self-proclaimed anti-fast fashion activist who upcycles campaign outfits.
Other corners of the vending carnival represent more sinister and politically fringe groups, including a vending stand run by Rev. Hyun-jin “Sean” Moon, the leader of a controversial religious sect who worships with an AR-15. It was something. Moon is the co-founder of Pennsylvania-based Rod of Iron Ministries, an extremist church that likens the Bible’s “rod of iron” to an AR-15 and compares Jesus to an assault weapons manufacturer. .
