Associated Press issues warning about iconic Trump assassination attempt photo
An already iconic image of Donald Trump's bloodied face and pumped fist immediately after a failed assassination attempt on Saturday can be seen on tote bags, T-shirts, trading cards and other merchandise for sale across the Internet.
Versions of that image belong to the news organizations whose photojournalists captured the moment, including Evan Vucci of the Associated Press, Anna Moneymaker of Getty and Doug Mills of The New York Times.
Yet, those selling merchandise with the image or using it for fundraising — including the former president's reelection campaign — often fail to credit the photographers or get permission to use the images for commercial purposes.
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Merchandisers are especially using Vucci's photos. Raw Story asked the Associated Press about whether the use of Vucci's image for commercial or political purposes was authorized.
"The Associated Press is proud of Evan Vucci’s photo and recognizes its impact," Lauren Easton, vice president of corporate communications, told Raw Story via email. "In addition, we reserve our rights to this powerful image."
Easton did not answer Raw Story's follow-up questions about the legality of the entities using the image for commercial purposes.
The photo captures Trump standing up after a gunman opened fire on a campaign rally in Butler, Pa. The gunman killed one spectator and critically injured two individuals.
Trump was released from the hospital Saturday night after his ear was grazed by a bullet.
“Without question, Evan’s photo will become the definitive photo from the [assassination] attempt,” Patrick Witty, a former photo editor at Time, The New York Times and National Geographic told the Associated Press. “It captures a range of complex details and emotions in one still image — the defiantly raised fist, the blood, the agents clamoring to push Trump off stage and, most importantly, the flag. That’s what elevates the photo.”
Proud Patriots, an Orlando-based private company, is one website selling merchandise with the image: Trump assassination attempt cards. An eBay user is selling T-shirts, sweatshirts, mugs and Koozies with the bloodied Trump image.
Trump's joint fundraising committee appeared to use Vucci's image in a fundraising email less than 24 hours after the shooting.
"I am Donald J. Trump, and I will NEVER SURRENDER!" reads an email with an altered version of the photograph. "I will always love you for supporting me. Unity. Peace. Make America Great Again."