A Brewery’s Dark Humor and the Politics of Decency
When a Wisconsin brewery offered half-price beer on the day of Senator Mitch McConnell’s death, it sparked more than just a social media firestorm. It raised uncomfortable questions about the limits of political satire, the ethics of profiting from mortality, and the state’s willingness to punish dissent. For a progressive audience, the incident is a case study in how even well-intentioned provocations can alienate allies and empower adversaries.
Minocqua Brewing Company, known for its unapologetically left-wing branding, posted the offer on Instagram in July. The post read: “Given that Mitch McConnell is responsible for AT LEAST 50% of what’s currently wrong with America, we’ve decided to give 50% off of all of our beer at both taprooms in Minocqua and Madison the day he kicks the bucket — which in all honesty was probably three weeks ago.” The reference was to McConnell’s prolonged absence from the Senate after a hospitalization in June, a period marked by scant public information about his condition.
The brewery’s owner, Kirk Bangstad, has a history of such provocations. Earlier, he offered free beer if President Trump died. His beers include flavors like Antifa Oktoberfist and Fascist Tears. But this time, the backlash was swift. Critics accused the brewery of tastelessness, with one Instagram user writing, “Even if this was Biden this is gross.” Another sent a direct message expressing hope that the brewery would “obtain more wisdom, love and compassion.” Minocqua’s reply was equally pointed: “We pray you obtain more self awareness, humility, and a better knowledge of world history.”
Bangstad also took aim at Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, a Democrat, for not calling a special election to replace McConnell. Beshear’s office responded with a statement on X, arguing that August 3 had no legal impact on his options and reminding the public of the stakes: “Right now, there’s one less vote for the SAVE Act, Trump’s war with Iran, or the potential replacement of a SCOTUS justice.” This exchange highlights a deeper tension within the liberal-left: the balance between principled opposition and the risk of alienating moderate allies.
Beyond the moral calculus, the brewery faces a tangible threat. The Wisconsin Department of Revenue is seeking to revoke its alcohol permit, citing violations that Bangstad describes as “laughable.” In June, state officials seized all canned beer, arguing it was illegally imported from Illinois without proper permits. The brewery maintains it contracted legally with an Illinois producer. Bangstad has vowed to fight “tooth and nail,” framing the move as an attempt to “make an example” of Wisconsin’s “most progressive brewery.”
The situation is further complicated by an earlier incident: in April, FBI and Secret Service agents interviewed Bangstad after a Facebook post from the brewery’s account suggested someone should assassinate the president following a security breach at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. The post read, “Well, we almost got #freebeerday. Either a brother or sister in the Resistance needs to work on their marksmanship or he faked another assassination to get a positive news cycle.” While Bangstad later clarified it was satire, the investigation underscores the fine line between political humor and incitement.
For The Liberal Current, this story is not merely about a brewery’s bad taste. It is a reflection of the broader challenge facing progressive voices in an era of heightened polarization. How do we critique power without descending into cynicism? How do we hold figures like McConnell accountable without dehumanizing them? And how do we defend free expression when it is wielded in ways that may undermine the very values we champion?
The answer, perhaps, lies in the nuance that Bangstad’s approach lacks. Satire can be a powerful tool, but it must be wielded with precision. The brewery’s offer, while rooted in genuine frustration with McConnell’s political legacy, risks trivializing the seriousness of his health situation and the broader political moment. It also provides ammunition to those who would paint all progressive activism as crass or irresponsible.
As the permit battle unfolds, Minocqua Brewing Company will likely remain a lightning rod. But for the liberal-left, the lesson is clear: in the fight for a more just society, the means matter as much as the ends. We must hold ourselves to the same standards of decency and reason that we demand of our opponents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Minocqua Brewing Company offer half-price beer when Mitch McConnell dies?
The brewery’s owner, Kirk Bangstad, stated that McConnell is responsible for “at least 50% of what’s currently wrong with America.” The offer was intended as a satirical protest against McConnell’s political record and his prolonged absence from the Senate due to health issues.
What legal trouble is the brewery facing?
The Wisconsin Department of Revenue is seeking to revoke Minocqua’s alcohol permit, citing violations related to the importation of beer from Illinois without proper permits. The brewery argues it has a legal contract with an Illinois producer and is appealing the decision.
How did Governor Andy Beshear respond to the controversy?
Governor Beshear, a Democrat, did not directly address the brewery’s offer. Instead, he issued a statement clarifying that August 3 had no legal impact on his options regarding a potential Senate vacancy, and he reiterated his demand that McConnell address the public about his health or resign.
What does this incident reveal about political satire in the current climate?
The controversy highlights the tension between using satire to critique powerful figures and the risk of alienating moderate allies. It also underscores the legal and reputational risks that progressive voices face when their humor crosses into perceived tastelessness or incitement.