Trump Takes on the Fry Line at McDonald’s

On a bright Sunday afternoon, former President Donald J. Trump exchanged his tailored blue sport coat for a striking yellow-trimmed apron as he stepped into a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania. With a hint of nostalgia, he took to the fry line, enthusiastically serving up orders to eager supporters in the drive-through lane. His signature ketchup-red tie remained firmly in place, a testament to his unique style even in a fast-food setting.

“I could do this all day,” Mr. Trump proclaimed with a smile. “I love McDonald’s, I love jobs, I love to see good jobs.” While his enthusiasm for the fast-food chain and the notion of employment was evident, it was clear that Mr. Trump’s experience in such roles was minimal at best. His attire, beyond the colorful apron, reflected a stark contrast to the standard uniform worn by the restaurant’s employees.

Unlike his fellow workers, who donned practical dark shirts and slip-resistant shoes, Mr. Trump opted to maintain his distinct appearance. He skipped the branded visor typically associated with McDonald’s staff, instead showcasing his luxurious shirt with French cuffs. This visual disparity underscored a notable reality: the former president, regardless of his culinary skills with a salt shaker, operates within an entirely different socioeconomic sphere compared to those in the service industry.

Mr. Trump, who once estimated his net worth at a staggering $9 billion, is known for his preference for high-end fashion, including suits from Italy’s prestigious Brioni brand that can retail for up to $14,000. To put that into perspective, a fast-food employee in Pennsylvania earning the state’s minimum wage of $7.25 would need to work over 1,900 hours to match that amount—an impressive figure that does not even account for taxes.