Primanti Bros., a Pittsburgh-based sandwich shop chain, found itself in an unwanted controversy after allegedly refusing entry to Vance’s campaign team at its North Versailles location. The Republican vice-presidential candidate JD Vance’s team was on its campaign trail and visited the sandwich shop chain during a stop.
However, the restaurant’s manager did not permit the entourage to enter the eatery, stating that they were not allowed to make a political stop at the establishment.
Claims Arise of Primanti Bros. CEO Denying Entry to Vance’s Campaign Team at North Versailles Site
The incident led to right-wing journalist Laura Loomer making allegations about the wife of Primanti Bros. CEO Adam Golomb, hinting that her views may have provoked the restaurant’s actions.
According to Washington County GOP chair Sean Logue, who was talking to CBS News, the manager of the restaurant forbade Vance and his Secret Service detail from entering.
Sean Logue added,
“When we mentioned that Kamala Harris had campaigned here recently, the manager replied, ‘If he wants to sit and order food, we can’t stop him.’”
Logue also claimed that the manager had stated that the police would be called if he entered. One of Vance’s campaign staff talked with the manager.
Vance was later allowed inside after a brief altercation. The restaurant later clarified that it was a misunderstanding due to the unexpected arrival of the campaign entourage.
Primanti Bros also negated the claims that Ohio Senator JD Vance was debarred from entering their North Versailles outlet during a campaign stop on Saturday. It stated that the restaurant staff was not aware that Vance would be coming.
Eventually, the staff welcomed Vance and his entourage inside to talk with other guests. However, Logue was unhappy with how the situation was handled.
Vance walked in eventually paid the bill for everyone, and then left. Logue also noted that the restaurant hadn’t apologized for the incident.
Vance, on the other hand, trivialized the incident and stated that the manager probably got nervous with the large crowd and didn’t want the restaurant to become part of a political event.
Primanti Bros, in a statement, reiterated that their restaurant is open to all guests, regardless of political affiliations.
