A Wisconsin brewery, Minocqua Brewing Company, remains open while its owner contests a revocation of the company’s alcohol permits. This follows drink promotions linked to the hypothetical deaths of President Donald Trump and Senator Mitch McConnell.
State officials had moved to revoke the brewery’s license, citing alleged violations of Wisconsin’s alcohol regulations. However, by appealing the decision, the brewery continues to operate during the legal process. This was confirmed by the Wisconsin Division of Alcohol Beverage.
The brewery’s owner, Kirk Bangstad, claims the state’s actions are politically motivated. He described the move as heavy-handed following his establishment’s controversial promotions. The brewery offered free beer after Trump’s potential death and half-price beer upon McConnell’s.
Bangstad expressed his determination to fight the permit revocation, stating, “they’ll have to pry me out of my taprooms before I stop selling beer to thirsty progressives who come to visit us.” The Wisconsin Department of Revenue has issued revocation notices for the brewery’s permits, involving several locations, after seizing beer illegally transported without proper permits or taxes.
The brewery faced backlash after announcing #freebeerday and #halfpricebeerday on social media, receiving criticism mostly from Trump supporters. Bangstad argued that the promotions are protected political speech, and noted the publicity has increased sales.
Mitch McConnell’s Current Status
Mitch McConnell has been absent from public view since a June hospitalization following a fall. The 84-year-old senator has not returned to Senate duties. His absence has raised questions about his health and capability to fulfill his role.
His office initially shared little information after his fall, stating he was recovering. Eventually, they disclosed he had no major injuries but developed pneumonia during treatment. McConnell is now undergoing rehabilitation, hindered by ongoing mobility issues from childhood polio.
McConnell intends to complete his current term, ending in January. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has sought more transparency about McConnell’s condition, while his office maintains that the senator plans to return following recovery from these health challenges.
Brewery’s Ongoing Legal Dispute
Minocqua Brewing Company continues to challenge the state’s revocation notice. Bangstad indicated the appeal may take months to resolve. The brewery expects to operate throughout the appeal process, which involves a Department of Revenue hearing examiner assessing the case.
The Wisconsin Department of Revenue stated that the brewery had until Tuesday to file the appeal. Meanwhile, the brewery has reported increased beer and merchandise sales due to the attention from the controversy.