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'We Are Not Red or Blue — We Are Golden': McDonald's Tells Employees It's Non-Political After Trump Visit In a message to employees, McDonald's clarified that company leadership approved the visit, but the fast-food giant is not political.

By Carl Stoffers Edited by Jessica Thomas

Key Takeaways

  • Donald Trump made a high-profile visit to a McDonald's in suburban Philadelphia on Sunday.
  • Following the visit, McDonald's emphasized its non-political stance to its employees, stating that the company does not endorse political candidates.

Presidential candidate Donald Trump made a campaign stop at a suburban Philadelphia McDonald's on Sunday, donning an apron and staffing the fry station and drive-thru. The restaurant was closed to the public for the Republican nominee's visit.

Related: Considering franchise ownership? Get started now to find your personalized list of franchises that match your lifestyle, interests and budget.

In a message to employees obtained Monday by the Associated Press, McDonald's clarified that its leadership team approved the visit and that the company is not political.

"Upon learning of the former president's request, we approached it through the lens of one of our core values: we open our doors to everyone," the company said, according to AP. "McDonald's does not endorse candidates for elected office and that remains true in this race for the next president. We are not red or blue — we are golden."

Related: You Want Fries With That? Trump Makes an Appearance at McDonald's Working the Kitchen

McDonald's said franchisees have also invited Democratic nominee Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, to their restaurants, according to the AP.

Harris said she worked at McDonald's during the summer of 1983 as a rising sophomore at Howard University. The vice president has referenced this job as part of her personal narrative, emphasizing her working-class roots and connection to everyday American workers. McDonald's has long been a popular stop for politicians looking to connect with voters, but the company has consistently maintained that these visits are not endorsements.

Related: Taking Control of Your Life Through Franchising Webinar

Read More: AP News

Carl Stoffers

Entrepreneur Staff

Senior Business Editor

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