Donald Trump has long wrapped himself in patriotism, from campaign slogans to speeches invoking “greatness” and “faith.” But his cash cow, the “God Bless the USA” Bible, has revealed a cynical truth about how he monetizes both religion and his political brand.
Trump began promoting his “God Bless the USA” Bible edition in March 2024 as part of his presidential campaign. The Trump Bible is printed inside and out with patriotic trimmings like the U.S. Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights, the Pledge of Allegiance, and even lyrics from Lee Greenwood’s song. And it sells for $59.99 online. If you think that’s ridiculous, a hand-signed version goes for as high as $1,000.
But there’s a glaring, uncomfortable detail that emerged from shipping records. All Trump Bibles were printed in China at a cost of roughly under $3 each. According to global trade and customs data, about 120,000 copies of these Trump-endorsed Bibles were shipped from Hangzhou, China. At less than $3 per unit, the production value of all shipments was roughly $342,000. (via PBS)
The Trump Bible profit margin is 1900%, all thanks to China
If every copy is sold at the minimum list price, the total potential revenue equates to about $7 million. Work the math: printing costs around $3, retail price $59.99, and the Trump Bible yields an astonishing markup approaching 1,900%. Here’s the kicker: Trump built much of his trade agenda around blaming China for unfair trade practices.
Trump has called China a supposed threat to American industry, accusing it of stealing jobs from Americans. At various points, he’s even threatened steep tariffs on Chinese imports. Yet he chose to have his “ultimate patriotic Bible” printed in China. But that contradiction hasn’t been lost on observers.
Once a con, always a con
Social media pointed out the stark hypocrisy of promoting an America-branded religious product manufactured in a country repeatedly castigated. But one user said, “It wasn’t a mistake, Trump knows his MAGA base is too stupid to notice.” Most weren’t surprised, speaking volumes about Trump’s reputation.
“What do you expect? He’s a grifter, and he continues to milk the cult,” one wrote. Another called Trump the “Greatest Con Artist of all time,” while one added, “Once a con, always a con.” Trump’s own financial disclosure shows he personally received royalty income from the project. This includes at least $300,000 reported in licensing fees (via Business Insider).
Some reporting suggests total revenues could push into the millions, depending on overall sales and signed copies. One user joked on this, writing, “By the time his presidency ends, he will be trillionnaire. What amazes me is that there are still people falling for his grifts.” Other responses pointed to a broader irony. If the point of tariffs and trade wars is to bring manufacturing back to the U.S., why not produce Trump’s Bible domestically?
Yet, we got a Bible printed abroad, sold at a massive markup, branded with patriotic language and Trump’s name. Call it what it is: the ultimate grift dressed up in red, white, and blue.
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