Summary
JD Vance, the Republican vice presidential nominee, was denied entry to a Primanti Bros. restaurant in North Versailles, Pennsylvania, during a campaign stop on September 28, 2024. This incident sparked significant backlash among conservative supporters, who accused the restaurant of political bias, especially given that Vice President Kamala Harris had previously held a campaign event at a different Primanti Bros. location.
The situation unfolded when Vance arrived at the restaurant, where a crowd of supporters had gathered. However, employees informed him that he was not allowed inside due to what they described as a “momentary confusion” regarding his unannounced visit. A manager reportedly threatened to call the police if Vance insisted on entering. In response, Vance addressed his supporters outside, expressing goodwill towards the restaurant and encouraging them to continue supporting it despite the incident. The restaurant later issued a statement attributing the misunderstanding to a lack of advance notice and asserting that Vance was welcomed shortly after the initial refusal. This episode has fueled calls for a boycott of Primanti Bros. among some conservative circles, reflecting the heightened political tensions leading up to the 2024 election.
Background of the Incident
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Previous Events: The controversy was compounded by a past incident where patrons were reportedly cleared out to accommodate Kamala Harris and her campaign team at a Primanti Bros. location in August. This prior event led to accusations of staged political gatherings, further polarizing perceptions of the restaurant’s political affiliations.
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Vance’s Response: Despite the setback, Vance maintained a positive attitude, stating, “Don’t hold it against her, she just got a little nervous, but it’s a great local business.” His comments aimed to defuse tension and encourage his supporters to remain supportive of the establishment.
Public Reaction
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Supporter Backlash: Videos circulated on social media showing Vance’s supporters cancelling their orders and leaving in protest after the denial of entry. Many conservative commentators and social media users called for a boycott of Primanti Bros., framing the incident as indicative of broader political discrimination.
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Restaurant’s Clarification: Primanti Bros. later clarified that the situation was a misunderstanding and that they have a history of welcoming political figures from both parties. They emphasized their commitment to serving all patrons regardless of political affiliation.
This incident highlights the increasingly contentious atmosphere surrounding political campaigning in battleground states, where even local businesses can become focal points for partisan disputes.
Primanti Brothers says VP Nominee JD Vance was not turned away for visit after viral video
Sep. 28 / Yahoo! News / Focuses on the restaurant's perspective, emphasizing the confusion surrounding Vance's visit. It balances the narrative by showcasing both Vance's graciousness and the restaurant's efforts to clarify the situation. “ Videos of Republican Vice President Nominee JD Vance seemingly being turned away from a local Primanti Brothers are growing popular on social media but the...
Sep. 29 / Google News / Delivers an insightful examination of the incident, addressing the confusion and public outrage. It includes statements from both Vance and restaurant management, lending credibility to the narrative. “ Primanti Brothers denies claim Sen. JD Vance was "banned" from entering, Vance encourages support of small business CBS PittsburghJD Vance supporter reacts...
JD Vance Reacts After Reportedly Being Barred From Greeting Supporters In Pennsylvania Restaurant
Sep. 29 / Dailycaller / Analyzes the fallout from the incident, including calls for a boycott of the restaurant. It captures the growing tensions in the political climate, making it a relevant piece for understanding current events. “ A southwest Pennsylvania restaurant employee moved to restrict Republican Ohio Sen. JD Vance’s entrance into the establishment Saturday, forcing waiting...
JD Vance Takes High Road After Restaurant Denies Him Entry: 'Great Local Business'
Sep. 29 / Brietbart / Covers Vance's reaction to the incident, including his comments about supporting local businesses. It provides a personal touch, showcasing Vance's character amidst the controversy, which adds depth to the narrative. “ Sen. JD Vance (R-OH) was denied entry to a restaurant outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, that he described as being a “great local business.” In a post on...
JD Vance Takes High Road After Restaurant Denies Him Entry: 'Great Local Business'
Sep. 29 / Brietbart / Presents Vance's gracious response to the incident, emphasizing his support for the restaurant. The article effectively contrasts his demeanor with the controversy, showcasing a unique perspective on political civility. “ Sen. JD Vance (R-OH) was denied entry to a restaurant outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, that he described as being a “great local business.” In a post on...
Sep. 29 / New York Post / Offers a vivid account of the chaos at Primanti Brothers, detailing Vance's response and the restaurant's attempts to manage the fallout. The direct quotes from Vance add authenticity to the narrative. “ This sandwich shop just got caught in a pickle. Pennsylvania favorite Primanti Brothers is scrambling to avoid blowback after turning away vice presidential...
JD Vance Shunned by Pittsburgh Restaurant, Sparking Conservative Fury
Sep. 29 / Newsweek / Provides a detailed account of the reactions on social media, showcasing the outrage from Vance's supporters. It captures the emotional response of the public, making it a compelling read for those interested in political dynamics. “ A Pittsburgh restaurant has refused to admit vice-presidential candidate , where he was supposed to speak; he instead addressed supporters in the parking...
Sep. 29 / Google News / Highlights the contrast in treatment between Vance and Harris, providing context to the incident while capturing the outrage from supporters. It effectively contextualizes the political dynamics at play. “ JD Vance escorted out of Pittsburgh's iconic restaurant, despite Harris holding an event in the same venue Hindustan TimesVance not allowed to campaign in...
Sep. 29 / Google News / Offers a concise recap of the event, emphasizing the contrasting treatment of Vance and Harris. It captures the immediate reactions from supporters and the restaurant's management, providing a balanced perspective. “ Vance not allowed to campaign in Pittsburgh culinary landmark — despite Harris event at same restaurant chain Fox NewsJD Vance suffers latest food-related...
Sep. 29 / Fox News / Explores the broader implications of the incident within the political landscape of Pennsylvania. It highlights the polarization of public spaces and the repercussions for local businesses, adding depth to the discussion. “ Vice presidential candidate Sen. JD Vance was seen talking to an employee at Primanti Bros. Restaurant and Bar in North Versailles, Pa., on Saturday. Vice...
Sep. 30 / Zerohedge / Examines the restaurant's claim of "momentary confusion," providing a critical perspective on the situation. It questions the validity of the restaurant's narrative, offering insights from local political figures. “ Pennsylvania is a major battleground state in the 2024 presidential election , but many Americans may not be aware of how tenuous the situation is for...
JD Vance Shunned by Pittsburgh Restaurant, Sparking Conservative Fury - Newsweek
Sep. 29 / Google News / Focuses on the public's mixed reactions to Vance's experience, highlighting the social media discourse. It captures the essence of the political divide, making it a noteworthy addition to the ongoing conversation. “ JD Vance Shunned by Pittsburgh Restaurant, Sparking Conservative Fury NewsweekJD Vance supporter reacts after vice presidential candidate not allowed inside...
DAVID MARCUS: Selfish Kamala Harris pours gasoline on Pittsburgh sandwich shop’s Vance gaffe
Sep. 29 / Fox News / Highlights the political implications of the incident, framing it as a strategic failure for Democrats. Marcus effectively critiques Kamala Harris's actions, adding depth to the narrative surrounding Vance's experience. “ Vice presidential candidate Sen. JD Vance was seen talking to an employee at Primanti Bros. in North Versailles, Pa., on Saturday. Vice President Kamala...