By The new campaign cap for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz has sparked unexpected comparisons to Chappell Roan’s popular merchandise. Revealed shortly after Walz was announced as Harris’ vice-presidential pick, the “Harris-Walz” cap combines traditional camo with bright orange, a nod to outdoor enthusiasts and safety.
However, the design bears a striking resemblance to Roan’s “Midwestern Princess” trucker hats, which reference her debut album. Roan, a breakout queer pop star known for her vibrant stage presence and candid lyrics, has seen her “Midwestern Princess” hats gain popularity, paralleling her rising mainstream success. The similarity has led to playful speculation online, with fans noting the intersection of hunting culture and Gen-Z fashion.
Despite these observations, campaign officials have stated that the hat design was inspired by Walz’s personal camo hat rather than any reference to Roan’s merchandise. Walz, who frequently wears a similar hat, was even sporting it when he received Harris’ invitation to join her ticket.
The campaign’s decision to feature such a design, while not intentionally aligned with Roan’s brand, aligns with Harris’ strategy of engaging with current trends and appealing to diverse voter groups. The hats, priced at $40, are marketed as both “American made” and “union made,” and are slightly more expensive than Roan’s, with the extra cost supporting the Harris Victory Fund.
The online discussion about the caps reflects broader discussions about the campaign’s appeal across different demographics, blending traditional and modern influences. As the caps won’t be available until mid-October, only time will tell if they can achieve the same iconic status as Trump’s MAGA hats.
4o mini
