Former President Donald Trump has unexpectedly endorsed actress Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle advertisement after discovering she is a registered Republican. Sweeney, best known for her roles in hit shows like Euphoria and The White Lotus, appeared in a back-to-school campaign for American Eagle that initially drew mixed reactions online. Critics accused the ad of being overly polished and lacking authenticity. However, public perception shifted when Trump publicly praised the commercial after learning about Sweeney's political alignment—calling it “classy” and “patriotic.” His comment quickly went viral, igniting debates across social media about celebrity endorsements and political affiliations.

Prior to Trump’s endorsement, Sweeney’s American Eagle ad had not been overtly political. It showcased a nostalgic 2000s vibe, showcasing her in denim outfits while emphasizing youth-centric themes like individuality, confidence, and self-expression. The campaign, targeting Gen Z and young millennial shoppers for the back-to-school season, aimed to resonate with consumers through familiarity and optimism. While some fans appreciated the fashion-forward aesthetics, others interpreted the campaign as tone-deaf or out-of-touch in a politically charged climate. The backlash intensified when commentators scrutinized Sweeney’s past affiliations and family events believed to have conservative ties.

The turning point came when it was reported that Sydney Sweeney is a registered Republican, leading many conservatives—including Trump himself—to view her in a new light. “Now that I know she’s Republican, I think the ad is incredible,” Trump said during a Truth Social post. The statement was quickly picked up by conservative media outlets and political commentators, who praised Sweeney for not hiding her political identity despite potential Hollywood backlash. Supporters celebrated her as an example of someone who can succeed in liberal-leaning entertainment circles while privately holding right-leaning beliefs. Critics, however, warned against politicizing commercial advertising and questioned the relevance of public figures’ voter registration to their artistic work.

Following Trump’s comment, American Eagle saw a notable spike in online traffic and social media engagements. Marketing analysts observed that the virality of the political angle helped amplify the campaign’s reach far beyond its original target demographics. Though Sweeney has not publicly commented on Trump’s praise or her political leanings, her team has neither confirmed nor denied the registration reports. Meanwhile, discussions around the ad continue to trend on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram, with users debating whether the newfound political spotlight will help or hinder Sweeney’s brand image and career trajectory moving forward.