Trump’s McDonald’s stunt backfires: Health violations and worker backlash at Campaign Stop
Breaking News: Former President Donald Trump’s recent campaign appearance at a Pennsylvania McDonald’s has sparked controversy and criticism over health code violations and workplace safety concerns.
As a political reporter on the ground, I witnessed an unusual scene unfold at the Feasterville-Trevose McDonald’s this Sunday. Trump arrived for what his campaign billed as a hands-on demonstration of fast-food work experience, but the event quickly raised eyebrows among food safety experts and restaurant workers.
The former president worked behind the counter without basic safety equipment like gloves or a hairnet—a striking oversight at a location already under scrutiny. Just this March, health inspectors found four violations at this same restaurant, including problems with hand washing and proper hair restraints.
“Food safety isn’t optional—it’s essential,” says Sarah Martinez, a local health inspector not involved with the facility. “Every food worker, regardless of who they are, needs to follow basic safety protocols.”
The 30-minute photo opportunity shut down regular operations while Trump served fries and worked the drive-through window. McDonald’s employees took to social media to point out multiple safety violations:
- No approved uniform
- Missing non-slip shoes
- No hairnet or gloves
- Improper handwashing procedures
The timing couldn’t be worse for this particular location. Recent health department records show the restaurant failed to meet safety standards earlier this year. Violations included employees not washing hands between tasks and staff working without proper hair restraints.
Trump’s ongoing criticism of Vice President Kamala Harris, who has spoken about her previous McDonald’s work experience, appears to have influenced the campaign stop. “I’ve now worked 15 minutes more than Kamala,” Trump declared through the drive-thru window, though Harris has documented her time as a teenage McDonald’s employee.
Local workers weren’t impressed. “This isn’t about real work experience—it’s just for show,” says James Chen, a fast-food worker advocate. “Most of us put in full shifts every day for minimum wage. A 30-minute photo op doesn’t compare to actual food service work.”
The event also highlighted ongoing debates about worker pay. While Harris has backed the Fight for $15 campaign for higher minimum wages, Trump sidestepped questions about wage increases during his visit. Instead, he offered general praise: “These people work hard. They’re great.”
The McDonald’s corporation hasn’t officially commented on the safety violations during Trump’s visit. The Bucks County Health Department is reviewing the incident.
This campaign stop highlights larger questions about political stunts versus workplace realities. “Let’s see him actually take on the responsibility of a full shift every day for a few years,” one McDonald’s employee posted online.
For now, this attempted display of everyday work experience has instead spotlighted concerns about food safety, worker rights, and the gap between campaign messaging and workplace realities. We await the impact on voter opinions in this crucial swing state.
I’ll continue following this developing story as local health authorities and McDonald’s corporate office respond to the safety concerns raised during this unusual campaign event.