A recent Harris poll reveals that 40% of Americans are adjusting spending to reflect their moral values, with 24% ceasing patronage of preferred stores due to political stances. This consumer shift is particularly pronounced among younger, Black, and Democratic individuals, who expressed higher rates of disengagement from the economy. The trend, fueled by corporate responses to the Trump administration’s policies and the rollback of DEI initiatives, mirrors past partisan boycotts but showcases a growing liberal consumer activism. This “laissez-faire consumerism,” as described by the Harris Poll CEO, involves disengagement rather than outright boycotts, reflecting consumer frustration with intertwined corporate and political landscapes.
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Canadian consumers are threatening to boycott American-made food products in response to the recent threat of increased tariffs. This potential boycott reflects growing anger and frustration over the ongoing trade dispute between Canada and the United States. The impact of such a boycott on American food exporters could be significant. Consumer action is viewed as a powerful tool to pressure the US government to reconsider its trade policy.
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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