In an unexpected move on October 20, 2024, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump paid a visit to a McDonald’s in Feasterville-Trevose, Pennsylvania. The former president not only greeted customers but also tried his hand at working behind the counter, donning an apron to cook and serve French fries. The unusual appearance sparked interest from locals and drew a massive crowd outside the restaurant, many eager to catch a glimpse of the presidential hopeful in action.
Trump’s visit to the fast food chain was not just a public relations event; it was a jab at his political rival, Vice President Kamala Harris, who has previously mentioned working at McDonald’s during her college years. Trump, however, has publicly challenged this claim, accusing Harris of fabricating the story without offering any substantial evidence.
In typical fashion, Trump used his time at McDonald’s to push his narrative, saying, “I’m running against somebody that said she did [work at McDonald’s], but it turned out to be a totally phony story.”
A Different Kind of Campaign Stop
The event began with Trump jokingly telling the restaurant’s franchise owner, Derek Giacomantonio, that he was “looking for a job.” Trump explained that he had always wanted to work at McDonald’s but never had the chance.
After some light-hearted banter with Giacomantonio, Trump removed his suit jacket and put on a black and yellow apron, stepping behind the counter to work at the French fry station. He dipped wire baskets of potatoes into sizzling oil, salted them, and handed them out to customers waiting at the drive-thru window.
Kamala Harris lied about working at McDonald’s so the most powerful man in the world just worked a drive through shift just so he could say he worked 15 more minutes of fast food than her. He’s running one of the best and most comical campaigns I’ve ever seen. We will never have… pic.twitter.com/HLDwZlyzJo
— Green Lives Matter (@Ultrafrog17) October 20, 2024
Videos of the former president working the fry station and drive-thru quickly surfaced on social media, showing Trump handing bags of food through the window to surprised customers. “This is fun, I could do this all day,” Trump remarked, clearly enjoying the moment.
The McDonald’s visit was a scheduled campaign stop in Pennsylvania, a crucial battleground state in the upcoming presidential election. Trump’s campaign has placed significant focus on appealing to working-class voters, and this stunt seemed designed to connect with that demographic. His visit to a McDonald’s, a symbol of American fast food culture, was seen as part of that effort.
A Crowd Gathers
News of Trump’s appearance at the Feasterville-Trevose McDonald’s attracted thousands of people, who lined the streets opposite the restaurant to catch a glimpse of the former president. Supporters arrived hours before Trump was scheduled to appear, and the gathering soon turned into a spectacle. Some waved flags, others held signs, and many were seen chanting slogans in support of the presidential candidate.
Elon Musk calls Donald Trump working at McDonald’s “Epic” 🤣 pic.twitter.com/NhZcs9271V
— America (@america) October 20, 2024
Despite the large crowds, the restaurant itself maintained that it was not a political event. Giacomantonio, the franchise owner, had posted a sign prior to the event that read: “While we are not a political organization, we proudly open our doors to everyone.” He later stated that the visit was an opportunity to showcase the positive role small businesses play in the community.
Trump and Fast Food – A Well-Known Connection
Trump’s love for fast food, particularly McDonald’s, has been well documented over the years. He has often been photographed enjoying burgers and fries, and he has even mentioned McDonald’s as a personal favorite. When asked about his favorite menu item, Trump responded with characteristic enthusiasm: “I like it all … I like every ounce of it, everything. But I do like the French fries, where I’ll be working.”
BREAKING: President Trump becomes the first and only 2024 presidential nominee to work at McDonald’s.
The mainstream media does not want you to SHARE! 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/e4ubOTPPLa
— Donald J. Trump 🇺🇸 News (@DonaldTNews) October 20, 2024
Trump’s visit wasn’t just limited to the fast-food chain. He also mentioned his plans to attend the Pittsburgh Steelers vs. New York Jets football game later in the day. “We’re going to the Pittsburgh game tonight. Pittsburgh Steelers. Should be good,” he said to reporters.
A Campaign Strategy or a Publicity Stunt?
While Trump’s supporters hailed the McDonald’s visit as a relatable moment for a candidate often associated with wealth and opulence, critics were quick to dismiss it as a publicity stunt. Some pointed out that the event appeared “staged,” citing a note posted by Giacomantonio prior to the visit, informing customers that the restaurant would be closed until 4 p.m. to accommodate Trump’s appearance.
Additionally, Trump’s continued focus on Harris’ claim of working at McDonald’s has been a recurring theme in his campaign. His accusations against the vice president for supposedly lying about her college job have been met with skepticism, and Harris has dismissed the matter as a sign of Trump’s desperation. While campaigning in Georgia, Harris told reporters, “It’s just another example of how far he’s willing to go to divert attention from real issues.”
