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In a twist worthy of a Hollywood script, McDonald’s has found itself unexpectedly thrown into the chaotic stew of the 2024 election. Some folks say it’s the fries that fueled the frenzy—specifically, when former President Donald Trump donned a visor and apron to serve up golden goodness at a Pennsylvania outlet. Spoiler alert: McDonald’s had nothing to do with it. They weren’t even running a promotional deal for “Fry-a-Palooza: Trump Edition.”
Now, here’s the kicker: McDonald’s operates on a franchise model, which is more like a free-for-all than a tightly scripted corporate saga. Each golden-arched franchise is a standalone operation—sort of like a rebellious kid with a McMansion that mom and dad can’t control. Franchise owners can invite political candidates to perform culinary stunts without so much as a nod from headquarters—think of it as a form of fast-food free speech.
Not wanting to be left with fries on their face, the McDonald’s corporate overlords quickly sent an internal memo to employees, declaring they hadn’t invited Trump or sought the unwanted political limelight. But they slyly twisted this national attention into a marketing strategy, highlighting their role as a “key part of everyday American life.” Because when you think of democracy, what better symbol than Big Macs and crispy fries?
“Our brand has been the talk of the town this election season,” they declared, emphasizing that they are neither red nor blue but rather gloriously golden. That’s not just a color scheme; it’s a political stance—who knew fast food could be so nuanced?
At the “political event” masquerading as a restaurant shift, Trump fetched fries like it was the most natural thing in the world. Who could have predicted a former president trading in his podium for a fry basket? McDonald’s President Joe Erlinger must have thought he hit the jackpot—or perhaps just an eye-roll-worthy moment for the brand.
The company did say they were proud of the political ties created by their fast food. Trump loves McDonald’s, and Kamala Harris reminisced about her time flipping burgers back in the day—if only she’d been serving up nuggets instead! However, Trump’s unverified claims currently stand in stark contrast to Harris‘s fond memories, turning the burger joint into a reality show episode no one asked for.
Yet, not everyone was having it. McDonald’s customers and employees rallied against the company for even allowing a political circus within its walls. Because nothing screams “great American democracy” like ordering a Big Mac while a presidential candidate is running a political stunt in the fry station.
Clarifying the situation, McDonald’s explained that the franchise owner, spurred on by local law enforcement, welcomed Trump’s visit. So, when life hands you a former president, you just make extra fries? The company claims it was sticking to its core value of inclusivity—proving their doors are wide open to anyone, even if they come with a side of controversy.
Franchises account for 95% of McDonald’s locations, each paying a pretty penny to bask in the glow of those iconic golden arches—only to find themselves caught in a political pickle. The company has previously waded into controversy, like when a franchise in Israel danced dangerously close to a public relations disaster by offering discounts to military personnel. Because nothing says “happy meal” quite like being boycotted across the Middle East.
Starbucks also faced its own hot brew of scandal recently, navigating the sticky waters of Pride banners and employee autonomy without officially sipping any of the caffeinated drama for themselves. Again, it’s all about maintaining a good image—like a venti frappuccino topped with cool whip.
To ensure such spud-slinging madness doesn’t happen again, McDonald’s announced it has “election toolkits” at the ready for any future campaign-like visits. What’s in those kits? Napkins, ketchup, and a whole lot of bewilderment, apparently.
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