Trump’s Latest NFT Collection: $99 Digital Trading Cards Spark Criticism
Former President Donald Trump has released another set of digital trading cards, branded as the “America First Collection.” These non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are being sold at $99 each and feature Trump in various poses, such as dancing and holding a Bitcoin icon.
The launch is part of Trump’s unconventional fundraising efforts, which have included unique items like his own sneaker line and a special edition Bible.
Customers who purchase 15 or more NFTs, totaling $1,485, will receive a physical trading card embedded with a piece of Trump’s “knockout suit” worn during the June 27 presidential debate against President Joe Biden.
Buyers who spend $7,425 or more—equivalent to 75 NFTs—are promised an invitation to a “gala dinner” with Trump at his country club in Jupiter, Florida. The NFTs can be purchased using a credit card or cryptocurrency.
Public and Media Reactions: Mixed Reviews and Criticism
Trump’s latest NFT offering has drawn both intrigue and criticism. Conservative attorney George Conway, a frequent Trump critic, expressed disbelief during an MSNBC appearance, describing Trump as a “scam artist” exploiting his supporters.
PREDICTION TIME
President Trump is set to launch his latest NFT collection, "America First Digital Trading Cards" Will his dedicated supporters snap them up quickly?
PREDICT HOW LONG IT'LL TAKE TO SELL OUT!!
Vote now @Official_NODO https://t.co/pggqlL6cAZ
— AnewFarmer (@DeGreat_Annie) August 30, 2024
Former NBC producer Mike Sington suggested on X (formerly Twitter) that Trump’s NFT launch indicated desperation for cash, especially as Vice President Kamala Harris outpaces him in campaign fundraising. Harris’ campaign recently announced raising $540 million since launching her presidential bid, while Trump reported $138.7 million raised in July.
Brian Krassenstein, an internet media personality, criticized Trump for profiting off his presidency, emphasizing that the NFT sales were not intended to support his campaign but rather to generate personal income.
Previous NFT Launches: Sales Success and Market Fluctuations
Trump’s first NFT collection, released in December 2022, sold out in two days, raising nearly $4.5 million. A second batch followed in April 2023, featuring Trump in various costumes. His “MugShot” edition launched in December 2023, referencing his arrest in Georgia on charges related to attempts to overturn the state’s 2020 election results.
However, the value of these digital cards has been inconsistent. In March, Trump’s first three NFT collections were pulled from sale until the end of the year. The NFT trading platform OpenSea confirmed the removal but did not elaborate on the reasons behind it.
Trump's latest NFT collection has generated over $2 million in sales, with only 5% of the 360,000 digital trading cards sold so far. Less than 21,000 have been purchased. #TrumpNFT #Crypto #NFTs #Blockchain pic.twitter.com/NRuV08nheQ
— WOLFIENS (@WLFNCRYPTO) August 30, 2024
Conclusion: Trump’s Unconventional Fundraising Continues Amid Criticism
As Trump continues his unconventional fundraising efforts, including these NFT collections, the reaction has been mixed. While his supporters may see this as a unique way to engage with his brand, critics argue that it underscores a focus on personal gain rather than political objectives.
With his campaign trailing in fundraising, the success and reception of these digital assets will be closely watched.