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'And people say he's terrible businessman': Internet jokes as Donald Trump sells wrapping paper with his mugshot on it

Donald Trump offers Christmas-themed wrapping paper having his mugshot in a bid to encourage supporters

MIAMI, FLORIDA: In a festive move aimed at energizing his political base, former President Donald Trump is seizing the holiday spirit by offering Christmas-themed wrapping paper adorned with his infamous mugshot.

Donald Trump's festive pitch

Trump's team sent out an email appeal to supporters, proclaiming, "If you’re anything like President Trump, then all YOU want for Christmas is…TO MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!"

The email encourages supporters to contribute $47 or more to receive a "limited-edition" roll of 'NEVER SURRENDER MUGSHOT WRAPPING PAPER,' featuring a black and white image of Trump wearing a Santa hat.

The proceeds are framed as a way to combat what the email describes as the threat posed by "Crooked Joe Biden and the Radical Democrats."

The donation page displays an image of a large gift wrapped in unique paper, with a green bow on top. The offer extends to varying contribution levels, ranging from $47 to $3,300, the maximum allowable individual federal campaign contribution.

This marketing strategy coincides with the approaching Iowa caucuses, a crucial time for political posturing and rivalry.

On Trump's merchandise page, supporters can also purchase 'MAGA Fist Bump Wrapping Paper' for $35.

Additionally, for those eager to display their allegiance before Christmas morning, a 'Never Surrender Christmas Stocking' is available for purchase.

Donald Trump's Christmas political messaging

Trump has a history of incorporating Christmas themes into his political messaging, having previously touted his role in reviving the phrase 'Merry Christmas' during his 2016 campaign.

"When I started campaigning, I said you’re going to say ‘Merry Christmas’ again, and now people are saying it," he told Newsmax host Mike Huckabee. 

This latest venture, however, merges holiday cheer with a unique twist—Trump's altered mugshot. While the former president leverages his mugshot for fundraising purposes, he continues to grapple with legal challenges that have incurred significant legal fees. 

Trump's legal battles include a New York fraud trial, where he has been outspoken against prosecutors, accusing them of conducting a witch hunt.

Those who donate to the Trump Save America Joint Fundraising Committee also have the option of clicking a box to provide an additional donation.

It contends that President Biden and Democrats have "unjustly ARRESTED President Trump, attempted to JAIL him for life as an innocent man, taken a MUGSHOT of him, and even GAGGED and CENSORED him."

Social media reactions

The unveiling of the Trump-themed wrapping paper prompted a barrage of reactions on social media.

"Marketing genius!" one posted on X (formerly Twitter).

"And people say he's a terrible businessman," another commented.

"Pretty sure I at least gotta get the paper and the ornament. Great stuff!" a comment read.

"While some people tiptoe on eggshells around their Lib relatives and friends on the holidays…I go all out. Get your Trump balls, mug shot shot glasses, and Make Christmas Great Again wrapping paper now so it’s in time for Christmas!" someone else wrote.

As the holiday season unfolds, it coincides with critical early state primaries and caucuses, adding further significance to Trump's unconventional approach to political fundraising.

The former president's legal challenges persist amidst the festive cheer.