In the heartland of Minnesota, a notable controversy is unfolding as a local pizzeria finds itself at the center of a political storm. This debacle began when a group of Republicans and ardent supporters of former President Donald Trump were unexpectedly ejected from a Davanni’s location over the weekend. The uproar began to spread like wildfire across social media platforms, igniting passionate discussions about political bias and fairness.
The incident reportedly occurred when Dalia al-Aqidi, a Republican Congressional candidate from Minnesota’s 5th Congressional District, led a group of Republican staffers and activists for a casual gathering at the establishment. Al-Aqidi clarifies, “This was not a misunderstanding. The individual, who appeared to be a manager, repeatedly insisted that we leave, stating, ‘Please leave now.’” The group’s intention was simple: to enjoy a meal following a Senate District convention. She emphasized, “We were simply a group enjoying a meal after a Senate District convention, and several of us clarified to her that this was not a political event—just a gathering over dinner.”
MAKE THIS GO VIRAL: Davanni's Pizza manager Catherine/Katherine at the Edina MN location confirms that individuals from SD50MNGOP were asked to leave today stating "we don't allow political events in our party room". When asked why they were asked to leave for being patrons that… https://t.co/MuJRoidxzF
— RINOs of MN (@RINOs_of_MN) March 1, 2025
Despite their earnest clarifications, the manager refused to relent, determined to remove them from the premises. Al-Aqidi expressed disappointment at the disrespectful attitude displayed, urging for unity and mutual respect in a politically diverse community. “This incident should serve as a wake-up call for everyone. While we may reside in a predominantly blue district, we will not allow ourselves to be bullied or silenced,” she declared, advocating for coexistence and mutual respect amidst differing political beliefs.
Amid the brewing unrest, calls emerged to boycott the establishment. Davanni’s, seeking to extinguish the flames of controversy, released a conciliatory statement affirming their commitment to inclusivity. “For 50 years, Davanni’s has been your neighborhood gathering place for quality food, community connection, and making memories,” the statement read, underscoring their traditional values. The company acknowledged that a misunderstanding of their policy regarding fundraising events in party rooms led to the incident, affecting “valued guests.” They expressed regret and highlighted efforts to enhance training for their team members to prevent future missteps.
Davanni’s, with its storied history as a family-owned business that has become a beloved Twin Cities tradition since 1975, employs over 900 people across 19 locations. Despite this incident, they aim to maintain their role as a pillar of community support and connection.
Across the nation, similar incidents have unfolded in other establishments, as liberal employees and business owners appear to target those who support Trump. It is only when such behavior is brought to the forefront that apologies and claims of misunderstandings surface.