In the history of the United States, very few sneaker brands (almost none!) have ever taken a political stand. Much less in favor of a President, whether Republican or Democratic. New Balance, just a few days ago, surprised everyone. During the American Election Day, in which Donald Trump became the 45th President of the United States, the Boston-based brand publicly endorsed his election. With a post on Twitter, Wall Street Journal journalist Sara Germano first made public the official statement sent by the shoe brand: “The Obama administration turned a deaf ear to us. Now, with the election of Trump, we feel that things are changing. And they are moving in the right direction.”

The reason for this communication? Former President Barack Obama did not pay proper attention to the increase in jobs (in the manufacturing sector) by New Balance, with the aim of increasing employment for the American population. Instead of moving production, as some competitor brands did (thanks to the Trans-Pacific Partnership), to other countries like China and Vietnam. While Trump, in his election campaign, has always supported “patriotic” companies 100%. And has always defined himself as anti-TPP.

For this reason (and others), chaos has erupted in the most important streets of American cities. Marked by pockets of anti-Trump New Balance shoes.