Sen. JD Vance, a vice presidential candidate, was reportedly kicked out of a Pittsburgh Primanti Bros. Restaurant and Bar when he attempted to meet with supporters on Saturday. Employees told the campaign that it was not a campaign stop and that Vance was not allowed in, threatening to call the police if they did not leave. Despite being booed by Trump-Vance supporters, they left the restaurant. This incident contrasts with how the Harris-Walz campaign was treated a month earlier at a different Primanti Bros. location in Moon Township, where locals were kicked out to accommodate the campaign’s private event.
During the Harris campaign’s visit to Primanti Bros., patrons were kicked out as the restaurant closed early for the private event. Videos from inside the event showed Kamala Harris and Douglas Emhoff interacting with patrons, while outside, kicked-out customers and Trump supporters protested the event. Some accused the campaign of using “actors” as video evidence contradicted their claims. Despite the Vance campaign being forced out of the restaurant, they managed to meet with supporters outside the establishment. Vance paid for everyone’s food and left a generous tip, emphasizing the need to support local businesses.
While leaving the restaurant, Vance addressed supporters outside, urging them to continue supporting the local establishment. Exclusive footage obtained by Fox News Digital showed Vance speaking with Primanti Bros employees after the incident, ensuring that the campaign would cover the bill for the food. Primanti’s released a statement on social media, stating that Vance’s visit was a surprise and caused confusion among their staff. They mentioned that they have hosted politicians and political candidates for over 90 years, and they aim to welcome all patrons, regardless of their background.
Campaign stops at Primanti Bros have sparked controversy, especially among patrons who were kicked out to accommodate these events. The Harris-Walz campaign faced scrutiny for allegedly using actors during their visit, while the Vance campaign was abruptly asked to leave. Despite these challenges, Vance remained composed and interacted with supporters outside the restaurant. Primanti’s expressed gratitude for the quick resolution of the incident and welcomed Vance and his team back into the establishment. Fox News Digital reached out to Primanti Bros for further clarification but did not receive an immediate response.
The contrasting treatment of political campaigns at Primanti Bros highlights the challenges faced by candidates in engaging with supporters in public spaces. The incident involving Sen. JD Vance reflects the unpredictable nature of campaign stops and the need for candidates to adapt to changing circumstances. Despite being kicked out of the restaurant, Vance managed to connect with supporters and emphasize the importance of supporting local businesses. As the 2024 campaign trail continues, it remains to be seen how future events at Primanti Bros and other establishments will unfold.
