The Reason Lindsey Graham Is Defending Chick-Fil-A
When someone criticizes Chick-fil-A, it usually has nothing to do with their food. In fact, their signature dipping sauce is so good, that loyal customers rejoiced when it was announced they'd be selling it by the bottle. However, just as much as Chick-fil-A is known and loved for their signature sauce, fried chicken sandwiches, and waffle fries, the chain is also infamous for their controversial company values.
The Hill reports that not only does the closed-on-Sunday fast food chain donate to Christian organizations, they also donate to those that actively support anti-LGBTQ policies. For many former customers, this is enough reason to swear off Chick-fil-A's delicious chicken altogether.
Chick-fil-A has been the subject of pushback for years, but not until July 2021 has actual legislative movement happened as New York state democrats have officially made moves to keep Chick-fil-A out of their community. According to The Hill, democrat lawmakers led by assembly member Harry B. Bronson released a petition requesting a revision of the New York Thruway Authority's $450 million modernization project, which includes adding more restaurants, such as Chick-fil-A, to New York rest stops.
Lindsey Graham believes removing Chick-fil-A is "a disastrous move"
New York democrats claim that including Chick-fil-A in the New York Thruway Authority's modernization project actually does more harm than good, because the restaurant's values directly contradict "the inclusive and non-discriminatory standards that New York State embraces" (via The Hill).
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, on the other hand, believes otherwise (via FOX). "If such a disastrous move ever came about — banning a commercial business due to them expressing their First Amendment rights — it would set a horrible precedent," he posted on Facebook. "It would also be ferociously opposed by many Members of Congress, including me." Graham made no mention of Chick-fil-A's actual food aside from referring to it as "great product," but considering he's from South Carolina, it's safe to say the food at the Southern-based restaurant also has something to do with his opposition.
In a clarification shared by FOX, Chick-fil-A stated, "We want to be clear that Chick-fil-A does not have a political or social agenda, and we welcome everyone in our restaurants." They went on to say, "We strive to be a positive influence in our local communities." And though New York democrats beg to disagree, Chick-fil-A still has the unwavering support of Lindsey Graham.