Former President Trump at McDonald’s Drive-Thru !?
The former president, well-known for his love of fast food, donned an apron and red tie to take on a shift at McDonald’s. Working the fryer and handing out meals at the drive-thru, Trump joked with customers and reporters alike. In what his campaign dubbed an “October surp-fries,” Trump quipped, “I’ve now worked for 15 minutes more than Kamala,” taking a direct jab at Harris, who has spoken about her time working at McDonald’s during college.
Trump has fixated on Harris’ claim that she worked at McDonald’s in the 1980s, suggesting without evidence that the Vice President exaggerated or fabricated the story. In response, Harris’ campaign has maintained that she did, in fact, work at the fast-food chain while attending Howard University. However, Trump’s stunt wasn’t just about the fries—it was an attempt to underline his contrasting narrative with Harris on middle-class values and work ethics.
Trump’s McDonald’s Stunt Draws a Crowd
Trump’s appearance at McDonald’s wasn’t just a photo-op; it drew a large crowd of supporters. Thousands lined the streets outside the Bucks County restaurant, a swing-voter area critical for both parties. Trump’s supporters, many wearing MAGA hats, cheered him on as he served bags of takeout to drivers. One supporter even exclaimed, “I’ll take whatever he gives me,” as Trump handed over their meal.
The former president, well-known for his affinity for McDonald’s Big Macs and Filet-o-Fish sandwiches, seemed to relish the moment. “I like this job,” Trump joked as he served fries to members of the press stationed outside. He even joked about handing out fries as “bribes” to the media.
The Harris-Trump McDonald’s Feud
Trump’s visit to McDonald’s was more than just a campaign stop—it was part of a larger effort to cast doubt on Harris’ claims about her working-class roots. Harris has repeatedly talked about her time working at McDonald’s in college, using it as an example of her middle-class background and empathy for working Americans. However, Trump and his allies have questioned the legitimacy of her story, with Trump suggesting that it was not listed on her resume and calling her past “a lie.”
Harris, in a recent interview, defended her claim, stating, “I worked there as a student.” She has highlighted her McDonald’s experience as a way to connect with voters who understand the struggles of working low-wage jobs while pursuing education or supporting a family.
Political Messaging Served with Fries
Trump McDonald’s visit also served as a platform for his campaign messaging. In an impromptu news conference from the drive-thru window, Trump fielded questions from reporters. When asked if he would support a minimum wage increase after seeing McDonald’s employees in action, Trump sidestepped the question but acknowledged, “These people work hard. They’re great.” However, his response drew criticism from Harris’ camp, with spokesperson Joseph Costello remarking that Trump “exploits working people for his own personal gain.”
Trump’s admiration for fast food is well-documented, and Sunday’s visit was no exception. “I like it all. I like every ounce of it,” Trump said when asked about his favorite McDonald’s item. “But I do like the french fries, where I’ll be working.” His love for fast food, particularly McDonald’s, has become an essential part of his public persona, symbolizing his connection to “everyday Americans.”
A Campaign with Fries on the Side, Please!
Trump’s brief stint at McDonald’s in Pennsylvania was more than a lighthearted campaign stop. It was a carefully crafted moment aimed at reinforcing his appeal to working-class voters while simultaneously attacking Kamala Harris’ narrative. Whether it resonated with voters or was seen as a political stunt, the event highlighted Trump’s ability to blend entertainment with political messaging, all while working the fry station at one of America’s most iconic fast-food chains.
As the 2024 election season heats up, moments like these may well define Trump’s campaign—part fast food spectacle, part political shade, and always underpinned by his signature bravado.
