McDonald’s clarifies neutral stance after hosting Trump event in Pennsylvania

McDonald’s has reaffirmed its neutral stance in the upcoming presidential election after hosting former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania restaurant over the weekend. The event, which took place at a suburban Philadelphia location, saw Trump taking over the fry station and interacting with customers through the drive-thru window. Although the restaurant was closed to the public for the visit, it attracted significant attention.

In a message to employees obtained by the Associated Press, McDonald’s clarified that the event was not an endorsement of any political candidate. Derek Giacomantonio, the owner-operator of the location, had reached out to corporate after learning of Trump’s interest in visiting a Pennsylvania restaurant. The company agreed to accommodate the request, citing one of its core values: “We open our doors to everyone.”

“McDonald’s does not endorse candidates for elected office, and that remains true in this race for the next president. We are not red or blue – we are golden,” the company stated in its employee message.

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Customers react as Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump hands them an order at a drive-thru window. (AP photo)

McDonald’s also noted that franchisees have extended invitations to other political figures, including Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Gov. Tim Walz. The Harris campaign is yet to respond to the invitation.

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The company acknowledged it has been a topic of discussion this election cycle, particularly as Harris has mentioned her time working at McDonald’s during her college years. McDonald’s expressed pride in Harris’ memories but sidestepped Trump’s unfounded claims that Harris was lying about her experience.

Despite some backlash on social media, with calls to boycott the chain, public relations experts believe the event is unlikely to harm McDonald’s long-term. Instead, many see the company benefiting from the publicity surrounding the event.

(With inputs from AP)