'Staged' Or 'Secured'? Trump's McDonald's Gig Sparks Debate

Former President Donald Trump donned an apron and cooked fries at a McDonald's in Feasterville-Trevose, Pennsylvania, on Sunday. While serving orders at the drive-thru, he took a jab at Kamala Harris for allegedly "lying" about working at the fast food chain during her college days. "I've now worked for 15 minutes more than Kamala at McDonald's," Trump said. Amid his "new job," a photo of a circular posted at one of the restaurant's doors surfaced, stating that the outlet was closed on Sunday due to Trump's visit."Dear Feasterville Community. We plan to be closed on Sunday, October 20 until 4 p.m., to accommodate a visit at the request of former President Trump and his campaign. While we are not a political organization, we proudly open our doors to everyone and as a locally owned and operated location, this visit provides a unique opportunity to shine a light on the positive impact of small businesses here in Feasterville. We're equally honored to share the significance of what 1 in 8 Americans have experienced: that a job at McDonald's is more than just a job. It's a pathway to critical skills development and meaningful career opportunities. Having started my McDonald's journey as a crew member in New York nearly 30 years ago. this path to economic opportunity is especially meaningful to me. I apologize for the inconvenience of closing our restaurant and sincerely look forward to serving you very soon," the circular read. Some social media reports claimed that customers were handpicked to place orders. Photos also surfaced of people "rehearsing" at the drive-thru ahead of Trump's arrival. Additionally, witnesses reported seeing Secret Service agents on the roofs of nearby buildings.

Cars rehearsing ahead of former Pres. Trump, who is expected to be serving supporters McDonald's food. pic.twitter.com/sDVXr5qLLj

— Tom Sofield (@BuxMontNews) October 20, 2024

These reports sparked a debate: Was it a "staged" visit or a "secured" one? While some social media users criticized Trump for "staging" the event, others argued that precautions were necessary, especially following two assassination attempts on him. "The Trump McDonalds thing was choreographed and staged. The restaurant was closed down, covered in Secret Service, the people going through the drive through were handpicked, careful and intentional camera placement. All staged," one person wrote on X.

You mean to tell me this was all staged, and that these "customers" rehearsed in advance to make it seem like a genuine interaction and that the McDonald's was actually closed to the public! I am shocked! I am appalled! Iam shocked and appalled! 😏#Mcdonalds #Trump… pic.twitter.com/uypxq3FBQy

— Shayla Sweatt (@shay_sweatt) October 20, 2024

Supporting Trump, another user wrote, "Of course. There have been two assassination attempts on his life. You think they’re just gonna let anyone drive up?"