Trump’s McDonald’s Visit Turns Into Fry Station Stint and Impromptu News Conference
Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump manned the fry station at a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania on Sunday, engaging in an unexpected hands-on experience before holding a brief news conference through the drive-thru window.
Trump Takes Over Fry Station
After receiving a quick lesson from a McDonald’s employee on how to properly dunk fries into the fryer, Trump took his turn, even helping to fill some takeout bags. With a grin, he commented, “It requires great expertise, actually, to do it right and to do it fast.”
Criticism of Kamala Harris
During his visit, Trump ramped up his criticism of Democratic candidate Kamala Harris, questioning her claim that she worked at McDonald’s while in college — an experience she frequently cites on the campaign trail. Without offering evidence, Trump claimed that Harris had lied about her time working at the fast-food chain. “I do appreciate it a little more now. You say, ‘Give me french fries,’ I’ll never forget this experience,” Trump said.
Responding to Reporters
Speaking to reporters, Trump was asked if he would respect the results of the Nov. 5 election. He repeated his desire for an overwhelming victory, stating that it should be “too big to rig.” Trump, who has consistently refused to accept the outcome of the 2020 election, is keen to avoid a close race this time around.
Visiting Swing Counties
Trump’s McDonald’s visit took place in Feasterville-Trevose, Bucks County — a critical swing area northeast of Philadelphia. Known for his love of Big Macs and Filet-o-Fish sandwiches, Trump has long been a fan of McDonald’s, often indulging while traveling on his campaign plane.
The restaurant’s owner, Derek Giacomantonio, explained his decision to host Trump: “It is a fundamental value of my organization that we proudly open our doors to everyone who visits the Feasterville community.” He added that it was an opportunity for Trump to experience a job that “1 in 8 Americans have had.”
Trump Fixates on Harris’ McDonald’s Experience
Trump has repeatedly questioned Harris’ claim of working at McDonald’s during her time at Howard University, though he has not provided evidence to discredit her. This is part of Trump’s ongoing strategy to cast doubt on his opponents’ personal stories and credentials.
Harris’ Response to Trump’s Accusations
In an interview last month, Harris defended her claim, explaining that her time at McDonald’s helped her relate to working-class Americans. “I worked there as a student,” Harris said, emphasizing the importance of understanding the struggles of those raising families while working in low-wage jobs.
Crowds Gather for Trump’s Visit
Trump’s visit to the McDonald’s drew a large crowd, with police closing nearby streets. Supporters gathered, waving flags, honking horns, and cheering for Trump as he made his way through the cordoned-off area.
Campaign Push Continues
Trump’s campaign adviser, Jason Miller, described the visit as a way to show Trump’s connection with “hard-working Americans.” Meanwhile, Harris’ campaign accused Trump of lying to undermine her working-class roots, with her spokesperson stating, “He can’t understand what it’s like to have a summer job because he was handed millions on a silver platter.”
As the campaign intensifies, Trump’s McDonald’s stop was another attempt to connect with voters and distinguish himself from his opponent, as both sides gear up for the final weeks of the race.
