McDonald’s Tells Workers it Doesn’t Endorse Political Candidates After Trump Visit
McDonald’s finding itself in the eye of a political storm following Donald Trump’s visit is a glaring example of how brands can unwittingly—or perhaps wittingly—become embroiled in political controversies. I’ve always had a love-hate relationship with McDonald’s, but this recent episode has pushed me beyond the tipping point. The announcement from the corporation claiming it does not endorse political candidates feels like nothing more than a desperate attempt to distance itself from a decision that has alienated many of its customers.
It’s baffling that McDonald’s would let a franchise owner turn their restaurant into a stage for a political event. The optics of Trump cooking fries in a McDonald’s, regardless of the intentions behind it, create an undeniable association between the brand and his divisive persona.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker