Florida GOP Withdraws 'Deport Depot' Merchandise Following Home Depot Complaints

The Republican Party of Florida introduced a new merchandise line called "The Deport Depot" but quickly scrapped it after Home Depot objected to the use of their name. The merchandise featured a bright orange square with "THE DEPORT DEPOT" in blocky stencil font. The party apologized for any confusion and removed the items from their online store.

The Republican Party of Florida (RPOF) recently introduced a new merchandise line called "The Deport Depot," but it was swiftly removed following objections from Home Depot. The merchandise, which featured a bright orange square with "THE DEPORT DEPOT" in blocky stencil font, was intended to capitalize on the state's immigration efforts. However, Home Depot's spokesperson, Beth Marlowe, stated that the company had not approved the party to use its branding or logo.

The merchandise, ranging from $15 to $28, was sold as political contributions to the RPOF. After the company's objection, the items were removed from the party's online store. The party chairperson, Evan Power, initially expressed confidence that the logo was protected by prior case law, stating that "no reasonable person would think it’s the logo of a company." However, the merchandise was removed shortly after the story was published.

This incident highlights the aggressive approach companies are taking to protect their logos. Home Depot, in particular, has been criticized for its stance on immigration issues, with ICE agents targeting day laborers outside its stores. The company has maintained that it is not involved in ICE activities.

The RPOF's attempt to fundraise off of the state's immigration efforts through merchandise is not uncommon, with previous lines of shirts, buttons, and hats released in response to the "Alligator Alcatraz" detention center. However, this latest attempt has raised questions about the party's use of branding and the potential for confusion among consumers.

References:
[1] https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/florida-gop-removes-immigration-merchandise-225818393.html
[2] https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2025/08/17/home-depot-florida-gop-merch/