Others, however, view the lawsuit as a necessary step to hold employees accountable. “He knew what he was doing,” said one frequent Primanti Bros. customer. “You don’t just refuse service to someone like J.D. Vance and expect there not to be consequences. If this lawsuit helps them get back on track, I’m all for it.”
Even those who don’t care much for politics are weighing in. “Honestly, I just want my sandwich spot back,” said one Pittsburgh local. “I don’t care if it’s J.D. Vance or Kamala Harris eating there, as long as I can get my fries-and-coleslaw-stuffed sandwich without all this drama.”
While the lawsuit unfolds, Primanti Bros. is trying to claw its way back from the abyss of public opinion. In a recent effort to regain the trust of its former customer base, the chain has rolled out a new campaign called “Sandwiches Without Politics,” promising that going forward, Primanti Bros. will remain a neutral ground where the only debate happening is over what to put on your sandwich.
“We want to be clear,” said a spokesperson for the company. “Primanti Bros. is a place for everyone—Republicans, Democrats, Independents, and those who just want to enjoy a good sandwich. The actions of one employee do not reflect the values of our company, and we are doing everything we can to make this right.”
