Brewery Stripped of Alcohol Permit After Offering Free Beer to Celebrate Trump’s Death
The Wisconsin Department of Revenue has issued notices revoking Minocqua Brewing Company’s brewer’s permits, escalating a long-running dispute between the state and outspoken owner Kirk Bangstad. This fight has drawn national attention over the brewery’s social media posts referencing President Trump’s death. The Wisconsin Department of Revenue issued notices revoking Minocqua Brewing Company Brewer’s Permits, escalating a long-running conflict between the state and outspoken owner Kirk Bangstad. This fight has drawn national attention due to the brewery’s posts on social media referencing the death of President Trump.
Here is a balanced, full breakdown of the facts, the reasons given by the state for the revocation, and the response from Bangstad.
What the State Actually Confirmed
Wisconsin Public Radio confirmed that the Wisconsin Department of Revenue issued a notice of Brewer’s Permit Revocation for two Minocqua Brewing Company Locations, one in Minocqua and another in Madison. A separate notice was also sent revoking a warehouse permit related to alcoholic beverages at one of these locations. The revocations will take effect on August 4. However, the department has confirmed that Bangstad can appeal until this date and continue to operate throughout the appeals.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports that the state is claiming violations of Wisconsin alcohol laws, including the operation of an unauthorized retailer, shipping violations, and the possession of untaxed beer in an unpermitted storage facility. The dispute stems from a June incident when authorities seized beer belonging to the company. They claimed that it was transported from Illinois by a brewing partner into Wisconsin without permits or paying taxes.
Why the Brewery Went to an Out-of-State Partner in the First Place
Bangstad said that the issue is a result of an earlier decision made by Wisconsin regulators, which barred Minocqua Brewing Company’s ability to ship beer directly to customers outside Wisconsin. He then entered into a partnership with an Illinois brewery in response. The state claims that this arrangement violates tax and permit requirements.
Bangstad’s Response to Claims of Political Resentment
Bangstad has been openly critical of Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers and the state Tavern League. He has described the permit revocation not as a response to tax infractions, but rather political retaliation. In a Substack Newsletter to supporters, Bangstad called the action an “absurd, heavy-handed act” and suspected that it was a first step towards permanently closing his business. He attributed it to his criticism of officials in Wisconsin and his decision to sell beer directly online to compete with traditional distributors.
He has said he will fight the revocation and told supporters that he won’t be “taking this lying down.” He also stated previously that Wisconsin authorities had seized approximately $25,000 of his company’s beer. This led the brewery’s lawsuit against the Department of Revenue.
Background: The “Free Beer” Posts That Sparked National Attention
Minocqua Brewing Company gained wide attention when a post on social media in January promised customers free beer for “all day” the day of President Trump’s death. The post did not mention Trump by name, but it was understood.
After an April attempted attack against President Trump, the controversy escalated when the brewery’s social media account referred to the incident and reiterated its standing offer. Bangstad previously claimed that he was interviewed by the FBI about comments he posted online after this incident.
Who Is Kirk Bangstad?
Bangstad bought Minocqua Brewing Company in 2016 with his late wife. Since then, he has built the company around a progressive brand. This includes beer names that are tied to Democratic politicians as well as products with names that reference progressive political causes. He is also the founder and chairman of a political committee that aims to remove Republican officials whom he believes are involved in 2020 election-related allegations, as well as downplaying COVID-19. Bangstad ran unsuccessfully for Wisconsin public office, including for the Democratic nomination as governor. He has also been involved in legal disputes with Wisconsin officials over the past few years.
What happens next
If Bangstad decides to appeal, it will be assigned to a hearing examiner who will develop proposed findings of fact and legal conclusions. In the interim, the brewery will continue to operate. This means that no closure is imminent regardless of the result of the appeal process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Wisconsin revoke Minocqua Brewing Company’s permit?
The State says that the revocation is due to alleged violations of alcohol shipment and tax laws. This includes untaxed beers stored in an unpermitted storage facility.
Does this have anything to do with the posts made by the brewery on social media about Trump?
According to the Department of Revenue, the revocation is not related to posts made by the brewery. Kirk Bangstad, the owner of the brewery, claims that this enforcement is political.
When will the permit be revoked?
The revocation will take effect on August 4 unless Bangstad files an appeal,l during which time the business may continue to operate.
Who is the owner of Minocqua Brewing Company?
Kirk Bangstad is a progressive activist, political organizer, er and owner of the brewery. He has been in charge since 2016.
Can the brewery still operate right now?
Yes, it remains open and can continue operating throughout any appeals process.
Final thoughts
The dispute is still ongoing between Wisconsin regulators, a brewer who claims the action was political reprisal, and the state s,tate which points out specific violations of alcohol and tax laws. In the coming weeks, the outcome of the case will depend on the appeals procedure. Follow USA Times S. Continue to follow this story for updates.
