In an amusing development, Trump has sent cease-and-desist letters to the Republican National Committee (RNC), the National Republican Senatorial Committee, and the National Republican Congressional Committee, telling them that they should stop using his likeness and name in their fundraising efforts because he wants all the money to go to his personal Save America PAC. He referred to these other groups as ‘RINOs’ (Republicans In Name Only).
But it looks like at least one these groups is not backing down.
The RNC responded on Monday and said the fundraising arm has a right to use Trump’s name and likeness in its efforts.
RNC chief counsel Justin Riemer wrote in a letter that the party “has every right to refer to public figures as it engages in core, First Amendment-protected political speech, and it will continue to do so in pursuit of these common goals.”
Trump treats his PACs like he treats the so-called charities he ran, as a slush fund that he can use as his personal piggy bank.
The RNC and the other groups are finding what they should have known all along, that Trump does not care about any person or organization that is not working entirely on his behalf.
Will these groups stick to their guns? Will Trump sue them or will he cave? Or will the RNC cave?
This is the kind of conflict that I can enjoy.
Also, the Pope is Catholic In Name Only.
And that bear is a pooper-in-the-woods-in-name-only.
RNC’s response sets up a conflict between freedom of speech and trademark protections. How exciting!
Ahh, that’s why there’s no book or corporate speaking gigs. Why bother when he can continue to fund himself through his PAC? It wouldn’t surprise me if rally-style, one man shows follow, but where he charges for attendance.
This. So much this. With the proceeds going via cut-outs so if he loses any lawsuits or divorce cases he can claim poverty…
I suppose the RNC could compromise and pay him a license fee for his name and likeness.