A recent incident at a McKeesport, Pennsylvania, Primanti Bros. restaurant involving Ohio Senator J.D. Vance has sparked a political firestorm. While on a campaign stop, Vance attempted to visit the famous sandwich shop, a staple in the Pittsburgh area known for its piled-high sandwiches, to meet with supporters and hold an informal event. However, the restaurant declined to allow the event to take place on their premises.
Patrons who had already ordered their food, canceled their orders, paid for their drinks and left.
Vance was turned away during an impromptu trip saying he was just trying to get lunch and it was not a planned campaign stop. A report alleges that the local manager refused to allow Vance in and threatened to call the police.
Supporters of Vance were quick to interpret the refusal as a political statement, sparking outrage online and fueling debates about whether the establishment’s actions were motivated by partisan leanings. Some accused Primanti Bros. of “canceling” Vance, a conservative senator closely allied with former President Donald Trump.
The situation gained traction on social media, where political commentators and everyday users alike speculated about the restaurant’s motives.
In response, Primanti Bros. issued a statement clarifying the situation. They emphasized that while they did not agree to host a formal campaign event, they had not “banned” Vance from entering their establishment.
According to their statement, it wasnβt about politics; rather, the restaurant claimed it was simply adhering to a policy of not allowing large, organized events that could disrupt regular business operations. This is not an uncommon practice for many local businesses that wish to maintain a non-political atmosphere, especially when handling large crowds. The chain reiterated that they welcome all customers and did not intend to create a political stir.
J.D. Vance was not upset with the restaurant, but his followers were and the business has been receiving bad reviews on many platforms since the encounter.
Despite the restaurantβs clarification, the incident highlighted how easily political tensions can flare in todayβs polarized climate. Supporters of Vance used the situation to criticize what they perceived as bias against conservative figures in public spaces, while others pointed out that businesses have the right to refuse hosting organized events, especially ones that may disrupt their usual flow of customers.
After paying for everyone’s meals, Vance reiterated that under a Trump-Vance administration, there will be no tax on tips.