Coffee Shop Sparks Backlash with Support for Charlie Kirk
A coffee shop in Rancho Santa Fe, Invita Café, has found itself at the center of controversy after showing support for Charlie Kirk, who was tragically killed during a speaking event at Utah Valley University on September 10th. The café honored Kirk with a sticker on their cups that read, “Thank you, Charlie Kirk” and “We love you.” Owner Sara de Luca shared that she never expected to pay such respects again, having long supported Kirk.
“When Israel went to war, we started wearing Israeli stickers to show support for the IDF. I think it was about gathering courage,” de Luca explained. “But with Charlie, we were hosting him and even met him and Erica.” Just a few days post-assassination, Invita Café announced that all proceeds would go to Turning Point USA.
The café actively encouraged patrons to “stomp and speak up,” urging them to stand in solidarity.
However, the reaction was swift and harsh. Many began targeting the business, leaving one-star reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp. Despite this backlash, neighbors and church members rallied for support, with some waiting up to 45 minutes for a drink. Video footage captured lines of supporters at Invita Café, showing a community coming together.
“We support them and we’re really grateful that they’re standing up,” one supporter said. “It shows that people come out for you when you take a stand,” she added.
De Luca noted that even those from other states were sending money to help buy drinks for locals. “God is behind all this. It’s just overwhelming. But I think Charlie would be proud,” she said. A local businessman from Georgia who owns a Steak N’ Shake was also impressed, suggesting that he might spread the café’s message across the nation.
Kirk’s assassination sent shockwaves around the world, with widespread mourning. In the aftermath, there are indications of a revival of faith. Jack Hibbs, a pastor from Calvary Chapel Chino Hills and a friend of Kirk’s, stated, “Having known Charlie for many years, he was an intellectual giant—a caring and dedicated man committed to this country and our republic.” He emphasized that knowing Jesus Christ surpasses everything else.
