According to The Independent, McDonald's, the global fast-food giant, has unexpectedly found itself at the center of the 2024 presidential election discourse.
This unexpected turn of events began when Donald Trump baselessly alleged that Kamala Harris's claim of working at a McDonald's during her college years was fabricated. This accusation thrust the fast-food chain into the limelight, a position it has maintained since.
The Trump campaign further escalated the situation by orchestrating a publicity stunt involving the former president working the fryer at a McDonald's franchise in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Following this, McDonald's felt compelled to clarify its stance on endorsing political candidates. In a memo to its employees, obtained by the Associated Press, the company stated, "McDonalds does not endorse candidates for elected office and that remains true in this race for the next President." The memo further emphasized the company's neutrality, stating, "We are not red or blue we are golden."
The memo also revealed that Derek Giacomantonio, the owner of the Pennsylvania franchise, was informed of Trump's intention to visit by local law enforcement and was more than willing to accommodate the request. The company expressed pride in showcasing how their team serves the local community and produces their renowned food, such as the World-Famous French Fries. The memo concluded by acknowledging the company's unexpected role in the election discourse, attributing it to the resonance of the McDonald's brand with the American public.
While the majority of McDonald's restaurants are independently owned and operated, franchise owners are allowed to invite political candidates to visit, provided they adhere to certain guidelines set by the parent company. The Associated Press reported that Kamala Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz, have also been invited to visit other McDonald's franchises.
The Trump campaign's visit to the Pennsylvania McDonald's was the latest in a series of personal attacks on Harris, who Trump has repeatedly claimed never worked at the fast-food chain. Harris has stated that she worked at McDonald's during a summer break at Howard University. The Trump campaign seized this narrative, with Trump quipping, "Ive now worked 15 minutes more than Kamala," from the drive-thru window.
In response to the ongoing controversy, McDonald's issued a statement, diplomatically distancing itself from the political spat. The company stated, "Though we are not a political brand, weve been proud to hear former President Trumps love for McDonalds and Vice President Harriss fond memories working under the Arches." The statement concluded by emphasizing the shared experience of many Americans working at McDonald's, a fact that transcends political affiliations and disputes.
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