When Donald Trump donned an apron at a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania this weekend he wanted to appeal to working class voters – but also to push his unsubstantiated claim that Kamala Harris never worked at the fast food chain. The Democrat says she worked at a franchise in California 40 years ago.
And she talks about it on the campaign trail regularly, an example, she says, of how she has a better understanding of working Americans’ concerns than her billionaire rival. The BBC’s Lily Jamali visited that McDonald’s near San Francisco to find out more the row. In a moment that surprised both his supporters and critics alike, former President Donald Trump was spotted behind the counter at a McDonald’s, serving fries with a smile.
The image quickly went viral, sparking curiosity and plenty of questions. Why was the 45th president of the United States handing out fast food? Here’s what really happened.
Contents
A Symbol of Support for Workers
Trump’s visit to the McDonald’s wasn’t just a publicity stunt; it was part of a broader campaign to connect with everyday Americans. During his presidency and even after, Trump has positioned himself as a champion of the working class, often referencing his love for fast food chains like McDonald’s. By serving fries, he wasn’t just embracing his love for the brand but also highlighting his ongoing connection to blue-collar workers and the service industry.
It’s no secret that McDonald’s employees, like many in the fast food industry, face challenging working conditions. Trump’s decision to step behind the counter was symbolic—a way to show solidarity with the workers and to emphasize that no job is too small or beneath anyone, even a former president.
Campaign Trail Strategy
As Trump gears up for the possibility of another presidential run, moments like these serve a dual purpose. They not only remind people of his famous connection to everyday American life but also help reframe his image. Critics often accuse Trump of being out of touch with the common person, given his billionaire status. By engaging in such relatable, down-to-earth activities, Trump counters that narrative and portrays himself as someone who can relate to the average citizen.
The visit to McDonald’s also played to Trump’s strength: his understanding of the power of optics. By doing something as simple as serving fries, Trump created a viral moment that garnered media attention without the need for a formal speech or press conference.
A Nod to His Fast Food Fanbase
Anyone who followed Trump’s presidency knows that he has a well-documented love for fast food, especially McDonald’s. In fact, during his time in office, he hosted several fast food feasts, notably when serving championship-winning sports teams visiting the White House. For many, McDonald’s represents more than just food—it’s a piece of American culture. Trump’s appearance at one of the chain’s locations plays into that sense of nostalgia and tradition.
This moment was as much about reminding people of Trump’s personal preferences as it was about connecting with the broader American public. By serving fries, he wasn’t just engaging in a fun photo op—he was reinforcing his own brand as a president of the people.
Connecting with the Base
For Trump’s core base of supporters, moments like these resonate deeply. Many of his fans see him as a populist leader who isn’t afraid to roll up his sleeves and engage with the public directly. In contrast to other political figures who may appear distant or elite, Trump’s McDonald’s visit reminded his supporters why they connected with him in the first place—his willingness to be part of the ordinary experience.
At a time when public trust in political figures is low, Trump’s actions at McDonald’s send a clear message: he’s still in touch with the regular, everyday American experience. Whether or not this moment will translate into broader electoral success remains to be seen, but it’s clear that Trump knows how to use symbolism to his advantage.
Conclusion
So, why was Trump serving fries at McDonald’s? It was more than just a quirky headline or viral video. It was a strategic move to reconnect with the American people, particularly the working class, and remind them of his populist roots. As Trump continues to navigate his political future, expect more moments like these—where simplicity meets strategy, and where fast food becomes a vehicle for political messaging.
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