A conservative influencer wearing a MAGA hat was forcibly removed from a Washington state Panda Express after employees called police on him for giving a thumbs-up gesture to a cook, despite authorities later confirming he broke no laws.

Restaurant Staff Ejects Customer Over Political Hat

Conservative influencer Chris Sims entered a Panda Express location in Lakewood, Washington on May 10 wearing a Make America Great Again hat. According to Fox News, which confirmed the incident, Sims was livestreaming his visit when he noticed restaurant staff reacting negatively to his headwear. When a cook stared at him continuously, Sims gave the employee a thumbs-up gesture. Staff immediately ordered Sims and his companion to leave the premises.

Employees followed the pair outside and called 911, falsely claiming the customers refused to vacate the property. Multiple staff members confronted Sims on the public sidewalk, attempting to stop him from recording. The responding Lakewood police officers determined Sims and his friend committed no violations and informed restaurant staff accordingly. One employee who placed the emergency call reportedly cried and returned inside after learning no crime had occurred.

Company Issues Statement After Political Discrimination Incident

Panda Express corporate headquarters responded to the controversy with a statement emphasizing their commitment to welcoming all customers. The restaurant chain told Fox News the situation was addressed at the local level and that management reinforced training on delivering consistent, respectful service to every guest. The statement did not specify what disciplinary action, if any, was taken against the employees involved. Police indicated restaurant leadership would need to handle the staff’s conduct internally.

Pattern of Political Discrimination Against Conservatives

This incident represents another example of Americans facing discrimination in public accommodations based solely on political expression. Business owners and employees have increasingly confronted customers wearing MAGA apparel, despite such political speech being protected under the First Amendment. The Lakewood case proved particularly egregious as staff not only ejected paying customers without cause but also filed a false police report claiming the individuals refused to leave when they had already exited to the sidewalk. The episode highlights growing concerns about whether Americans can freely express political views without facing retaliation in commercial establishments.