The American Eagle ad campaign featuring actress Sidney Sweeney has sparked criticism, but it appears that one demographic is rallying behind her. Let’s explore this further.
According to reports, Sweeney and American Eagle faced backlash after appearing in an ad campaign that played on the phrase “Sydney Sweeney has great jeans.”
Some online activists have described the ad in rather extreme terms, linking it to controversial themes, citing her roles in shows like A Sense of Happiness and White Lotus.
Newsweek reported on a poll indicating that many adults are quite accepting of the ad’s wording and concept.
A YouGov poll conducted on August 1, 2025, surveyed 3,509 US adults regarding the appropriateness of the ad’s wordplay. Here are the results:
- 52% found it appropriate
- 16% deemed it inappropriate
- 32% were unsure
The responses displayed a notable partisan divide. A significant portion of Republicans (64%) found the advertising campaign acceptable, while fewer Democrats and independents shared that view (about 46% and 49%, respectively).
The YouGov poll offered three choices: appropriate, inappropriate, or unsure. The responses were collected online and categorized by gender, region, political affiliation, age, and competition to ensure an accurate representation.
In a broader context, the White House is also navigating its own share of controversies.
The display featuring Sidney Sweeney will be showcased in American Eagle’s New York City windows on August 1, 2025. (Michael M. Santiago/Getty)
Reportedly, President Donald Trump addressed speculation about Sweeney’s potential political affiliations while returning to Washington from New Jersey. He expressed surprise at the news, stating, “If Sydney Sweeney is a registered Republican, then I think her ads are great.”
After the ad’s release, American Eagle’s stock saw an uptick. Sweeney has not publicly commented on the surrounding controversy yet.
