In a surprising turn of events, former President Donald Trump has called for an end to the boycott against Bud Light, suggesting that the beer brand, and its parent company Anheuser-Busch InBev, deserve a second chance. This statement comes after a tumultuous period for the company, which faced significant backlash following a marketing campaign featuring transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney.
Trump’s call for reconciliation with the beer giant marks a stark contrast from his earlier criticism of the partnership, which he had previously described as a “mistake of epic proportions.” The initial conservative outcry over the campaign was swift and severe, leading to a reported $400 million loss in sales for Bud Light and causing the brand to lose its coveted title as America’s favorite beer.
How can you not love President Trump? He truly loves the hard-working men and women of America.
I'm buying Bud Light for my Super Bowl party!
What about you? 👇 pic.twitter.com/OjWZDDQ2LV— Vince Langman (@LangmanVince) February 6, 2024
The former president highlighted Anheuser-Busch InBev’s contributions to the American economy and its support for veterans and first responders. He pointed out on social media that the company spends $700 million annually with American farmers, employs 65,000 Americans, including 1,500 veterans, and is a founding corporate partner of Folds of Honor, a charity providing scholarships to families of fallen servicemen and women.
Despite the previous controversy, Trump emphasized that Anheuser-Busch InBev is not a “woke company” and suggested that the focus should instead be on companies that are “looking to DESTROY AMERICA.” His comments come ahead of a fundraiser organized by a major Republican lobbyist for the company, where tickets are selling for $10,000 each.
🚨 JUST IN: Transgender “influencer” Caitlyn (Bruce) Jenner is joining forces with Donald Trump in calling for conservatives to drop their boycott against WOKE Bud Light.
Will you stop boycotting Bud Light? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/iVruRbht4i
— Proud Elephant 🇺🇸🦅 (@ProudElephantUS) February 7, 2024
The fallout from the initial campaign was not just financial; it also saw a cultural divide as high-profile figures like musician Kid Rock and NFL player Trae Waynes publicly expressed their disapproval. The company’s response to the controversy was criticized by some as being overly patriotic in an attempt to regain favor, which did little to stem the tide of declining sales.
Anheuser-Busch InBev’s struggles continued throughout the year, with repeat double-digit revenue drops and a significant loss in market capitalization. The company’s chief marketing officer stepped down amid these challenges, and Bud Light’s sales volume dropped precipitously.
In light of these events, Trump’s recent endorsement could signal a potential recovery path for Bud Light. His influence among conservative circles may sway public opinion and help rehabilitate the brand’s image. It remains to be seen whether this will translate into a tangible rebound in sales and reputation for Bud Light and its parent company.
As the debate continues over whether Bud Light deserves a second chance, the coming months will be critical for Anheuser-Busch InBev. With Trump’s backing, the company may find a way to navigate through the aftermath of the boycott and reestablish itself as a beloved American brand.
