McDonald's Role in 2024 Election Campaigns

In the lead-up to the 2024 presidential elections, McDonald’s has emerged as a focal point in the political discourse, often referred to as the 'McDonald’s primary.' This shift in focus comes as candidates like Kamala Harris and Donald Trump highlight their connections to the fast-food chain, appealing to a significant cultural symbol. Notably, approximately 10% of Americans eat at McDonald's annually, and one in eight has worked there, lending the brand a relatable charm in the campaign narrative. Harris, who has used her experience at a McDonald's in Oakland during her college years to connect with voters, emphasizes the need for a raised minimum wage for all, including fast food workers. Conversely, Trump has also leveraged his brand affinity with McDonald's to attract voters. While often viewed as campaign theatrics, the implications for McDonald's extend to serious labor issues, including the recent California legislation mandating a $20 minimum wage for fast food workers. This legislation reflects underlying challenges that McDonald’s faces, prompting the company to engage politically in states considering similar rules. They have notably contributed funds to legislators in Oregon and Illinois, states reviewing their own minimum wage policies. Although spending on federal lobbying remains steady at about $1.4 million this year, the dialogue around these state-level efforts may significantly impact McDonald’s bottom line. This situation illustrates the intertwining of corporate strategy and political advocacy and shows how brands like McDonald's can both shape and be shaped by the electoral process. The stakes are high not just for the candidates reaching out to these voters but also for the corporate narrative that McDonald’s must navigate in a rapidly changing labor market.