Some came to see President Donald Trump and witness history as he makes his third run for the White House. Some came for the camaraderie of thousands of like-minded individuals who believe the country is failing under the current administration and are looking to him as a savior. Others saw the gathering of thousands of people rallying around a common theme as a moneymaking opportunity.
They traveled from near and far to equip rallygoers with souvenirs and signs showing their patriotism and love for Trump. The market was hot, with an entrepreneurial spirit that would make the object of their admiration proud, especially considering that his likeness was on almost every item, including his mugshot and his “Fight, Fight, Fight” pose after he was nearly assassinated.
Even as the epic event wound down, the demand for hats, shirts, posters, mugs, and anything else that can be emblazoned red, white, and blue did not subside, particularly for those enjoying post-concert prices. Those who stuck around swept up $5 hats and $6 tee shirts from hawkers who didn’t want to depart with excess inventory.
One vendor actually sees gold in them there rallies, making her way from Texas in a gold Mercedes sedan autographed by the Don himself to help draw attention to her wares. Sany Dash taps a niche market of thousands of rabid fans as she follows Trump all over the country. Back in Dallas, she runs USATrumpStore.com, which she started seven years ago, growing it to 22 physical stores nationwide as Trump ballooned in popularity. An immigrant from India, her inventory of Trump bobbleheads, pinky rings, playing cards, caps, and other assorted merch raked in about $2.5 million last year.
At another table along Vendor Row was Deborah Yanny, whose mission is to “Make America Sparkle Again.” She was an Iowa delegate to the GOP National Convention and made sequined jackets for each of the confab’s seven nights. “People loved them,” the former West Des Moines beauty salon owner said, and she found herself a new side hustle. Orders flooded in for her America-themed works of haberdashery, and the business “just went crazy.”
Trying on one of Yanny’s creations was Laura Austen, who traveled from Lockport, Pa., to catch the rally. “Look at all of these people united around the one person they hope will save our country,” Austen said. “Trump is a unifying force. Look how he’s bringing all of these people together.”