Kai Trump, an 18-year-old high school senior set to play college golf at the University of Miami next year, is taking heat for her latest business announcement.
The granddaughter of President Trump, who attended Day 1 of the Ryder Cup with her grandfather on Friday, announced a savvy business move live on the White House lawn this weekend. Kai Trump, who has millions of followers across social media, is launching her own sweatshirt line. The sweatshirts, which retail for $130 on her website, feature “KT” lettering on the front.
“Live now at Kaitrump.shop (link in bio)! This collection is something I’ve dreamed about for a long time, and I’m so grateful it’s finally here. Launching this line has been such an exciting project. From the quality of the fabric to the details in the designs, I wanted to create a piece that isn’t just merch but a staple you can wear anywhere. There are Clean pieces you can mix, match, and make your own. I can’t wait to see how you style them!” she wrote on Instagram.
The sweatshirts are available in white, black and blue.
Kai Trump, who has 2.1 million followers on Instagram, is monetizing her following like many athletes do these days – even at the high school and college level. But Kai Trump is facing criticism from some for announcing her business move live on the White House lawn.
“President Donald Trump’s 18-year-old granddaughter is following in the family’s tireless tradition of leveraging their presidential connections to enrich themselves,” the Daily Beast wrote.
“Kai Trump, the eldest daughter of Donald Trump Jr., showed off her new line of eponymous merchandise by wearing one of the sweatshirts on the South Lawn of the White House alongside the president on Friday.”
The photoshoot taking place on the White House lawn sparked controversy.
“Kai had already used the White House for a photoshoot to launch the range on social media, where she has garnered millions of followers after becoming something of a MAGA influencer since last year.”
A White House spokesperson, meanwhile, believes nothing was done wrong.
“There is no prohibition against taking pictures on White House grounds nor is there a government endorsement of her product, so there is no issue here.”
UNITED STATES – JULY 17: Kai Madison Trump, daughter of Donald Trump Jr., speaks to the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee on Wednesday, July 17, 2024. (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)Bill Clark/Getty Images
Kai Trump, the eldest daughter of Donald Trump Jr., announced her commitment to the University of Miami in August of 2024. She has quickly become one of the most followed college “commits” in the country.
Name, Image and Likeness could provide for a serious earning opportunity for Kai Trump moving forward. Her NIL value is set to be estimated at $1.2 million, according to the Washington Post.
The high school senior has deals with TaylorMade and Accelerator, among others. However, her latest business move being announced at the White House has sparked some controversy.
Should that be allowed?
This story was originally reported by The Spun on Sep 28, 2025, where it first appeared in the Golf section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
