A newly opened bar in Washington, DC, is already at the center of heated debate—but it’s not for the reasons you might think.
Political Pattie’s, located in the heart of the city, aimed to create a space for lively bipartisan conversations.
However, the logo featuring both the Democratic donkey and Republican elephant sparked outrage among locals.
Backlash Over the Logo
Within days of its grand opening, residents of this politically charged city took to social media to express their displeasure, particularly over the inclusion of the GOP elephant.
In a city that leans heavily liberal, the reaction was swift and fierce.
Some described the bar’s theme as “dangerous” and “tone-deaf,” questioning the owners’ decision to mix politics and nightlife.
The Owners’ Vision: A Place for All
Andrew Benbow, 41, and Sydney Bradford, 40, co-owners of Political Pattie’s, were taken aback by the negative response.
Their vision was simple: a bar where people of all political backgrounds could engage in respectful conversation.
As a couple with differing political views—Benbow is a moderate Republican and Bradford is a Democrat—they saw their relationship as proof that people from opposite sides could connect.
“We thought DC would welcome a space like this because it’s such a political city,” Benbow told Fox News. “We didn’t expect such a strong backlash.”
A Space for Discourse, Not Division
Despite the criticism, Benbow and Bradford remain committed to their original goal.
They wanted to create a safe, inclusive environment for political discussions without judgment.
Bradford emphasized that while politics might fuel the bar’s theme, they don’t support hostility or discrimination.
“We’re not here to debate anyone’s existence,” Bradford told the Washington Post.
“This space is about conversation, not confrontation.”
Rebranding and Moving Forward
In response to the public outcry, the couple made the decision to change the bar’s logo, removing both the donkey and the elephant to avoid further controversy.
Although they wanted to preserve the bipartisan spirit, they realized that certain symbols could be more divisive than unifying.
“We want everyone to feel comfortable,” Bradford said.
“If even one person feels unsafe because of the logo, we’ve missed the mark.”
Creative Solutions to Ease Tensions
The couple has embraced humor to deal with the criticism.
Social media comments suggesting they “read the room” inspired a creative idea: they installed a mini-library inside the bar filled with political books for patrons to read or borrow.
They also incorporated jokes about Capitol Hill staff attire into their employees’ uniforms—khakis, blue shirts, and red ties.
Drinks, Music, and a Dash of Politics
Despite the backlash, Political Pattie’s continues to embrace its political theme.
The menu offers creatively named cocktails like the “Filibuster Fizz” and the “Gerrymander Martini.”
The walls are adorned with framed portraits of former presidents, and the second floor even boasts a DJ booth modeled after a presidential lectern.
“At the end of the day, we just want to create a fun and inclusive space that lightly pokes fun at politics without causing pain,” the couple explained to Washingtonian.
A Safe Space for All Opinions
The owners hope that, despite the controversy, people will give their bar a chance.
They’re eager to prove that Political Pattie’s can be a place where different opinions are not only welcome but celebrated.
As Election Day approaches and the political climate heats up, maybe we all need a place to grab a drink and talk things out.
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