President Donald Trump’s recent appearance at the McDonald’s Impact Summit 2025 brought humor, nostalgia, and pointed commentary aimed at his political rival, Vice President Kamala Harris. He cheekily claimed to be the first former McDonald’s fry cook to ascend to the presidency, emphasizing his unique experience behind the fryer. “I actually was there for about 30 minutes, and that was 30 minutes longer than Kamala was there,” he joked, referencing her past claims about working at the fast-food giant.
Trump’s remarks aimed not only to connect with the audience of franchisees but also to reinforce a theme central to his campaign: his work ethic and relatable background stand in stark contrast to Harris’s image. By sharing his brief stint at McDonald’s, he punctuated his message that he is more in touch with working Americans. “I’m honored to stand before you as the very first former McDonald’s fry cook ever to become President of the United States,” he declared, establishing a playful but assertive tone.
This approach is a continuation of his campaign strategy, which has often involved light-hearted jabs at Harris. At the summit, he thanked a McDonald’s employee for verifying that Harris never worked there, showcasing his effort to align himself with the average voter. At a prior campaign stop in Pennsylvania, he donned a McDonald’s apron, greeted restaurant staff, and even joked, “Hello, everybody. It’s my first day at McDonald’s — I’m looking for a job.” This persona is designed to resonate with those who appreciate a leader who can relate to their everyday experiences.
Trump’s affection for McDonald’s also serves as a broader metaphor for American resilience and innovation. He described the fast-food chain as a “cornerstone of the American dream,” praising its role in making food affordable for families. “You fed us very well, and I even got Bobby Kennedy to eat a Big Mac. He told me he loved it,” he said, illustrating his deep-seated loyalty to the brand and emphasizing his connection with American traditions. This narrative aligns with his overarching message about economic recovery and consumer affordability.
During his remarks, Trump credited McDonald’s with helping to stabilize prices for essential goods. “In the past six months, the price of breakfast items has fallen 14%,” he claimed, highlighting a perceived success in his administration’s economic policies. He positioned McDonald’s as a key player in this positive trend, suggesting that its global reach and operational practices are vital to American families achieving financial stability. His statement, “There’s no better leader or advocate than McDonald’s,” underscores his view of the company as more than just a fast-food chain — it symbolizes American ingenuity.
The atmosphere at the McDonald’s Impact Summit was charged with enthusiasm, as Trump spoke to a crowd eager for a connection to both the past and the promise of the future. He appealed to the heart of the American experience by presenting McDonald’s as not just a place for meals but as a touchstone of the American workforce. His acknowledgment of everyone from cashiers to franchise owners highlighted the diversity of those who partake in the American dream.
Ultimately, Trump’s speech was a mix of humor, nostalgia, and economic commentary, all wrapped in his well-known style. By drawing on his brief time as a fry cook, he reinforced his image as a relatable candidate while delivering pointed messages about his economic policies and views on his competitor. The layering of lighthearted anecdotes with serious economic address is emblematic of his approach: direct, personal, and distinctly aimed at appealing to the everyday American.
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