Minocqua Brewing Company Promises Free Beer Following Trump’s Passing

An unusual promotion by Wisconsin’s Minocqua Brewing Company garnered attention last week. They claimed on social media to offer “free beer all day” the day President Donald Trump passes away. The post read, “Free beer, all day long, until the day he dies. When that happens in a few months, show us this post, and we’ll keep that promise.”

The message mentioned the Madison Taproom, noting it is open year-round, while suggesting that if Trump were to pass during summer, they’d use their Minocqua Taproom instead.

While the brewery did not explicitly name Trump, numerous comments—around 2,000—interpreted the post as a reference to him. In further comments, the company hinted at this association while advising about possible timelines regarding the “agreement,” leaving some ambiguity in their response.

In line with their views, the brewery’s owner, Kirk Bangstad, previously formed a Super PAC aiming to challenge elected officials who, he believes, downplayed the COVID-19 crisis.

Additionally, the company’s social media echoed sentiments for a government shutdown as a means to protest against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) funding. One post noted the political risks of a shutdown but argued it could be necessary to curb ICE’s actions.

In comments to media, Bangstad expressed openness to a celebration for Trump’s passing, albeit with one rule: no red hats allowed.

Minocqua Brewing Company has become known for its political-themed beers, such as “Resistance Pilsner” and “Tammy Shandy,” named in honor of Wisconsin Senator Tammy Baldwin.