Olivia Asher is a reporter at the New Herald Tribune covering breaking news for the Digital Trends Desk. Before joining the newsroom in 2022, she covered criminal justice issues at the Orlando Plain Dealer.
September 4 , 2024
Berkeley, CA — McDonald’s has confirmed that Vice President Kamala Harris worked at a Berkeley franchise that was secretly owned and operated by the late celebrity chef and television personality Anthony Bourdain. The surprising disclosure has sparked a flurry of interest and speculation about the intersection of politics, media, and fast food.
According to McDonald’s, Harris was employed at the Berkeley location during the 1980s, a period that coincides with Bourdain’s clandestine ownership of the franchise. The connection was reportedly uncovered through internal company records and historical archives recently reviewed as part of a broader corporate transparency initiative.
Harris, who was a law student at the time, is said to have worked at the McDonald’s to help fund her education. The franchise, known for its distinct orange and yellow color scheme, was operated under Bourdain’s ownership but remained largely anonymous due to his preference for staying out of the limelight.
Bourdain, who rose to fame with his bestselling book “Kitchen Confidential” and his popular TV series “Parts Unknown,” was known for his outspoken critiques of the culinary world and his penchant for keeping a low profile in his business dealings. According to sources familiar with the matter, Bourdain’s decision to own the McDonald’s was part of a personal experiment to understand the dynamics of fast food and its impact on American culture.
“This was a unique period in both Kamala Harris’s life and Anthony Bourdain’s career,” said a McDonald’s spokesperson. “We’re proud of the diverse paths our employees take and the unique stories that emerge from their experiences. Kamala Harris’s time with us is a testament to the varied journeys people embark upon in their pursuit of success.”
The revelation has intrigued political commentators and food enthusiasts alike. Bourdain’s secret ownership of the McDonald’s franchise adds a layer of complexity to his public persona, revealing an aspect of his life that had previously remained undisclosed. Meanwhile, Harris’s involvement in the fast-food industry offers a curious glimpse into her early career.
Political analysts have noted that while Harris’s stint at McDonald’s was relatively short, it highlights her resilience and commitment to her goals during a formative time in her life. “It’s fascinating to see how people’s early jobs can shape their character and work ethic,” remarked political analyst Jane Thompson. “For Harris, working at McDonald’s while managing law school duties speaks to her dedication.”
As for Bourdain, his ownership of the franchise might now be seen in a different light. Known for his culinary achievements and social commentary, this new detail adds an unexpected twist to his legacy. “Bourdain was always about exploring different facets of life,” said culinary historian Mark Linton. “Owning a McDonald’s franchise was likely an extension of his quest to understand the world from various angles.”
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