Officials linked to President Trump, who have long advocated for strengthened ties between the U.S. and Greenland, are cautioning that this approach could have unexpected outcomes. Interestingly, the conversation includes the return of all-you-can-eat shrimp at Red Lobster.
Thomas Dance, a financier from Texas and chairman of the U.S. Arctic Research Commission, raised eyebrows with his suggestion in a profile by The New Yorker. He is viewed as a pivotal figure in Trump’s efforts to enhance U.S. interests in Greenland.
“I think the U.S. could possibly take all the seafood Greenland produces, bypass the middlemen, and keep it out of China’s hands. This way, we could have unlimited shrimp at Red Lobster,” he mentioned.
The article stated that Dance has faced accusations from Danish authorities regarding involvement in “influence operations” aimed at bolstering U.S. presence in the Arctic region, and he was part of a closed National Security Council task force concerning Greenland during Trump’s initial term.
The publication has sought comments from Dance and the White House.
A close ally of Trump, Dance held a position at the Treasury Department during Trump’s first term, acting as an adviser and overseeing certain federal relief initiatives during the pandemic.
Recently, he is increasingly recognized for his advocacy regarding Greenland and Arctic matters through American Daybreak, which aims to foster stronger U.S.-Greenland relations.
Trump has shown a consistent interest in Greenland, suggesting its strategic importance for U.S. national security due to its location between North America and Europe, as well as its natural resources and shipping routes.
He previously floated the idea of purchasing Greenland and, after re-assuming office, emphasized that U.S. “ownership and control” over the territory was “absolutely necessary” for national security.
While Trump frames Greenland acquisition as a security issue, critics point out that it might jeopardize U.S.-Denmark relations, a vital NATO partnership.
Public opinion is also against the idea, as polls indicate that a significant majority of Greenlanders do not wish to join the United States.
Regarding Red Lobster, it’s uncertain how a U.S. takeover of Greenland would positively impact the chain’s business. The “Endless Shrimp” promotion, a long-time favorite, allows diners to order shrimp endlessly for a set price.
This offer took on a controversial reputation when former management made it a permanent fixture in 2023. While it brought in customers, it negatively affected profits, significantly raising seafood and labor expenses.
The previous owner, Ty Union, later disclosed that this promotion led to an $11 million loss in one quarter, making “Endless Shrimp” a symbol of the chain’s financial difficulties.
In May 2024, Red Lobster filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing a mix of factors for its decline, including inflation and rising operational costs.
After emerging from bankruptcy under new management, Red Lobster initially moved away from the promotion but eventually reintroduced “Endless Shrimp” as a limited-time offer rather than making it a permanent item.
