US governor candidate cashes in on fidget spinners

  • 13/06/2017
Republican Tennessee gubernatorial candidate Randy Boyd.
Republican Tennessee gubernatorial candidate Randy Boyd. Photo credit: RandyBoyd.com

Tennessee's Republican gubernatorial candidate is cashing in on the latest toy craze - the fidget spinner – in a bid to raise campaign funds.

Randy Boyd is getting his campaign into gear more than a year out from the November 2018 election and the merchandise store will likely be a key part of funding his bid.

In it, you'll find the stock standard car bumper stickers, T-shirts, caps, badges and baby onesies.

But there is one item which is a little more novel and perhaps a play to make Mr Boyd the 'cool' candidate - a red Randy Boyd-branded fidget spinner which will set you back a US$5 (NZ$6.90) donation.

united states tennessee republican randy boyd fidget spinner
There are currently only 495 left. Photo credit: RandyBoyd.com

"Spin with this summer's hottest toy printed with the Randy Boyd for Governor logo in classic red," the description reads.

In New Zealand, a fidget spinner will cost you around $6.

The latest craze among kids, the objects have quickly gained popularity worldwide, even being a favourite of US President Donald Trump's 11-year-old son Barron.

They've been touted as a remedy for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety and autism, but there are claims the toys' benefits are probably overstated.

The toys, which spin using small ball bearings, have been banned in schools across the world including New Zealand.

Mr Boyd is so far contesting the gubernatorial race against Republican State Senator Mae Beavers and businessman Bill Lee.

Incumbent Republican Governor Bill Haslam has reached his two-term limit in the role and is barred from seeking a third consecutive term.    

Mr Boyd is by no means the first political candidate to sell novelty items, but he is likely the first to politicise the fidget spinner.

US presidential candidate Jeb Bush sold a US$75 (NZ$104) 'Guaca Bowle' and Hillary Clinton's 'Grillary Clinton' BBQ apron.

Newshub.