A quiet lunch with friends took an unexpected turn for Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders last week. While dining at The Croissanterie in Little Rock, she and two other mothers were asked to leave by the restaurant’s owner.
The request wasn’t about a policy disagreement or a disruptive scene. Instead, the owner approached the governor’s security detail, stating that Sanders’ presence was making employees feel threatened and uncomfortable. It was a jarring interruption to an ordinary outing.
According to her office, the group had been seated for over an hour, had fully paid their bill, and even left a tip before being asked to depart. The incident sparked immediate reaction and a wave of discussion.
The restaurant explained their decision stemmed from a desire to support their staff and patrons who expressed discomfort. They acknowledged being caught in a difficult position, unsure how to navigate the situation initially.
The business stated that allowing the governor to remain could be perceived as a lack of support for the majority of their team and their loved ones. Ultimately, they chose to prioritize the feelings of those who felt uneasy.
As Sanders and her companions exited the restaurant, an individual reportedly near the staff directed a shout and a crude gesture towards the governor. The moment added another layer of tension to an already fraught situation.
This wasn’t the first time Sanders has faced such a public request. In 2018, while serving as White House press secretary, she was similarly asked to leave a restaurant in Virginia, a parallel that drew immediate attention.
Reflecting on the Virginia incident, Sanders emphasized her commitment to respectful treatment, even towards those with whom she disagrees. She maintained that approach in the face of this latest experience.
The governor expressed her disappointment, noting that Arkansans are generally known for their hospitality. She affirmed her administration’s focus on uplifting citizens, rather than contributing to division.
