This is hilarious!
Diet Coke has long been a staple in American culture, representing a unique blend of indulgence and control. With its zero-calorie, caffeine-packed formula, it’s marketed as “just for the taste of it.” But this soda has become more than just a refreshing drink—it’s a cultural icon, even embraced by some of the most influential figures in America, from presidents to tech moguls.
Former President Donald Trump’s Diet Coke obsession became part of his larger-than-life persona, with reports suggesting he consumed up to 12 cans a day. The addition of a red button on his Oval Office desk to summon staff with Diet Coke reflects the drink’s deep association with power and influence. And upon his return to the White House, Trump had another custom bottle of his favorite soda presented to him by James Quincey, CEO of Coca-Cola. The story of Trump and Diet Coke is just one example of how this beverage has become a symbol of strength and productivity in American culture.
Trump is not the only high-profile figure with a Diet Coke fixation. Elon Musk, one of the wealthiest and most influential men in the world, has also posted photos of Diet Coke cans, humorously acknowledging his “drinking problem.” The drink’s appeal is growing among powerful individuals, making it a drink of choice for high achievers and those with a relentless drive to succeed.
My bedside table pic.twitter.com/sIdRYJcLTK
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 28, 2022
However, Diet Coke wasn’t always associated with masculinity and success. When it first debuted in 1982, Coca-Cola marketed it primarily to women, with famous ads showcasing office workers and pop stars like Taylor Swift endorsing the drink. But as time has passed, Diet Coke has shed its “female-oriented” image and become a beverage embraced by a broader, more diverse audience, especially among the MAGA generation. Today, it’s seen as a drink that represents hard work, ambition, and success—traits valued by conservatives who admire figures like Trump.
The change in Diet Coke’s identity is part of a larger cultural shift. The once-elitist “health and wellness” movement has faced backlash, with many Americans rejecting the pressures to follow trends in dieting and fitness. In many ways, Diet Coke has become a defiant symbol for those pushing back against the growing obsession with healthy lifestyles. As Andrea Hernandez, an expert in food and beverage culture, notes, it has taken on a status symbol, much like Trump’s unapologetic approach to politics.
In today’s climate, Diet Coke’s status as a symbol of resistance and productivity appeals to a generation that grew up with the ideals of Reagan-era America—values rooted in free-market capitalism, success, and individualism. In a world where corporate-sponsored health advice and the fitness industry dominate, sipping on a Diet Coke feels like an act of rebellion. It’s not just a soft drink; it’s a statement about independence and pushing back against mainstream narratives.
This resurgence in Diet Coke’s popularity is also evident in the rise of influencers promoting the drink on platforms like TikTok, where millions of followers tune in to see their favorite personalities indulge in “Diet Coke breaks.” From Gen Z to older generations, the drink remains a powerful symbol of American culture, aligning with the values of independence and defiance.
Despite controversies surrounding artificial sweeteners like aspartame, which the World Health Organization has labeled as “possibly carcinogenic,” Diet Coke continues to be a favorite for those who see the risks as part of the lifestyle of productivity and success. In fact, many of its drinkers embrace its stimulant properties as a form of “functional energy,” helping them power through their busy days.
In an era where everything seems to be under scrutiny, Diet Coke remains a comforting constant, a quintessential American product that transcends political divides. Whether you’re sipping it in the Oval Office or during a TikTok break, it’s clear: Diet Coke is more than just a beverage—it’s a symbol of perseverance, success, and the unapologetic pursuit of greatness.