Michigan Congressional Candidate Settles Copyright Dispute with Campbell’s Soup
A Michigan congressional candidate, Shelby Campbell, has recently reached a settlement with Campbell’s Company, the maker of Campbell’s soups, following a copyright infringement dispute. The soup company filed a federal lawsuit against Campbell last month, alleging that she had falsely implied its endorsement by using the Campbell’s logo in her campaign materials.
Campbell’s Company sent Campbell a cease-and-desist letter in September, requesting her to stop using their trademark logo. Despite the initial refusal, the court has now ordered Campbell to cease the use of Campbell’s trademark logo. However, she is allowed to continue using the term “soup” in her campaign, as long as it is not associated with any reference to the Campbell’s soup company.
As part of the settlement agreement, Campbell will have to remove any “disputed images” that include the Campbell’s Mark and trade dress from her campaign materials by November 21. In response to the settlement, Campbell expressed excitement, stating, “I will die or I will go to prison before I can’t use the word ‘soup.'”
James Regan, the director of external communications for Campbell’s Soup, highlighted the importance of the section in the settlement where Campbell agreed to stop using the challenged images/material. Campbell has also announced plans to change her campaign logo to hot pink and black colors, aiming to bring a different look to politics.
Despite the changes, Campbell will retain her email and social media handles as “soup4change,” emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself. Campbell’s journey through the legal dispute and settlement reflects her determination to overcome challenges and stand by her beliefs.
