Ohio Senator and Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance faced an unexpected setback during his campaign stop in Pittsburgh when the popular Primanti Bros. restaurant refused him entry, threatening him with trespassing charges. The incident occurred at the restaurant’s North Versailles location, a stop that was meant to engage supporters but instead turned into a political firestorm.
Vance, running alongside former President Donald Trump in the 2024 election, arrived at the iconic sandwich shop to meet with a crowd of around 100 supporters. However, upon his arrival, staff informed Vance that he was not permitted inside the restaurant, claiming that the visit was not approved as an official campaign stop. Despite previous reports that Primanti Bros. had hosted political figures, including Vice President Kamala Harris and Tim Walz just weeks earlier, Vance’s attempt was met with resistance.
ALL CUSTOMERS WALK OUT WHEN RESTURANT REFUSES JD VANCE
THE WHOLE COMMUNITY SENDS OUT MAS MEDIA
RESTURANT WILL BE FORCED TO CLOSE
NO CUSTOMERS
DUMBOCRATS SUCK AND SO DOES THIS RESTURANT https://t.co/vJbkmAJgyz— Frankie (@cheech2281) September 29, 2024
Restaurant management cited “momentary confusion” for the incident, stating that they were unprepared for a campaign event without prior notice and were concerned about large crowds disrupting business. Although Vance’s supporters pointed out the restaurant's history of hosting political figures, the manager reportedly threatened to call the police if Vance attempted to proceed with his visit.
Rather than escalate the situation, Vance opted to meet supporters in the parking lot, paying for everyone’s meals and delivering brief remarks. He humorously reiterated his campaign's stance on eliminating taxes on tips, a proposal endorsed by both him and Trump.
JD Vance was denied entry at Primanti Bros in North Versailles, PA and Still pay for every one food in the restaurant this guy has grown on me big time #notaxontips#JDVance #MakeAmericaGreatAgain pic.twitter.com/VM9mCHye3k
— Phins LockerRoom (@SeymoreDarry) September 29, 2024
Despite the tension, Vance responded with grace, encouraging his followers not to hold a grudge against the restaurant, emphasizing it was a misunderstanding caused by nerves among the staff.
The incident has drawn sharp reactions, particularly from conservative circles, with some supporters calling for a boycott of the restaurant. They view the refusal as emblematic of a broader trend of political bias against conservative candidates in public spaces. Online platforms were quickly flooded with negative reviews targeting Primanti Bros., though the restaurant has defended its decision as non-partisan and based on a desire to avoid disruptive campaign events.
Interestingly, the situation echoes a broader national conversation about political neutrality in businesses. Just as Bud Light faced backlash for political controversy, Primanti Bros. now finds itself at the center of a debate on the politicization of public spaces. The restaurant, in a statement following the event, reiterated that it has served politicians across the spectrum and welcomes all customers. However, they noted the unplanned nature of Vance’s visit contributed to the misunderstanding.
Despite the tense situation, Vance used the moment to rally his supporters, turning what could have been a negative event into an opportunity to connect with voters outside the venue. The incident highlights the increasing polarization in American politics, where even simple restaurant stops can become battlegrounds for political loyalty. As the 2024 election approaches, moments like these continue to fuel discussions about fairness, media bias, and the role of businesses in political discourse.
