Donald Trump’s love for McDonald's is well-documented and has become one of his most recognizable personal quirks. His fondness for the fast-food chain dates back decades and is rooted in both nostalgia and practicality. Trump has repeatedly praised McDonald’s for its consistency, simplicity, and cleanliness, and there are several historical moments that highlight his strong connection to the brand.
Trump has expressed admiration for McDonald’s reliability, noting that he trusts the fast-food giant because “you know what you’re getting." This appreciation stems from his long-standing preference for predictability, especially when traveling. In a 2016 interview with CNN’s Anderson Cooper, Trump explained that he often turns to McDonald’s while on the campaign trail due to concerns about food safety. In his words, fast food is “clean,” and he values the chain’s rigorous standards for quality control.
Beyond the campaign trail, McDonald’s has also been part of memorable political moments during Trump’s presidency. In January 2019, during a government shutdown, Trump personally hosted a fast-food feast at the White House for the Clemson Tigers football team, who had just won the national championship. With government chefs furloughed, Trump opted for McDonald’s and other fast-food favorites, jokingly referring to the meal as “great American food.”
