Key Takeaways:
- PublicSquare, a platform for Trump supporters, is now being used by critics to avoid pro-MAGA businesses.
- The site lists businesses that oppose progressive values like reproductive rights and diversity initiatives.
- Users are discovering unexpected businesses on the list and sharing their findings on social media.
- This backlash highlights the growing polarization in U.S. politics and consumer choices.
A New Platform with a Surprising Twist
PublicSquare, a website launched in 2022, was created to help Trump supporters find businesses that align with their MAGA values. The platform brands itself as the “anti-woke” place where users can support companies that share their political views. To be listed on PublicSquare, businesses must agree to support “family values and God-given liberty” and reject causes that oppose these beliefs.
However, things didn’t go as planned. Instead of becoming a hub for Trump fans, PublicSquare has become a tool for critics to avoid pro-MAGA businesses. Users are now sharing their discoveries on social media, expressing surprise and disgust at finding their favorite shops and services on the list.
How the Backlash Began
One user, Janet Koenig, was shocked to find her regular coffee shop on PublicSquare. “I was like, you’ve got to be kidding me,” she said. “I just assumed they were one of the good guys. I’ll be sure to tell all my friends not to go.”
Koenig now checks PublicSquare before shopping to avoid supporting businesses she disagrees with. “I feel like I have to do something,” she said. “Because businesses now control our votes, you know? I’m disgusted by the way our votes can be bought by businesses.”
Koenig’s reaction is not unique. Many users are taking to social media to share their own discoveries. One user wrote, “My god I just found out my dog’s vet is on there.” Another user posted, “THANK YOU FOR THIS LIST,” showing gratitude for the platform’s unintentional helpfulness.
The Power of Consumer Choice
PublicSquare’s intention was to make it easier for Trump supporters to find businesses that share their views. The platform allows users to search for businesses by ZIP code, making it simple to identify politically aligned companies locally and nationally.
However, the site’s design has had the opposite effect. Instead of uniting like-minded consumers, it has become a resource for critics to avoid supporting Trump-friendly businesses. This unexpected twist highlights the power of consumer choice in today’s politically charged environment.
What’s Next for PublicSquare?
As President Trump marks his 100th day back in office, the backlash against PublicSquare continues to grow. Critics are using the platform to boycotting businesses they oppose, showing the influence of consumer choices in politics.
PublicSquare’s story is a reminder of how technology can shape our interactions with businesses and politics. While the platform was designed to unite Trump supporters, it has inadvertently become a tool for critics to take a stand against MAGA-aligned companies.
In the end, the emergence of platforms like PublicSquare shows that consumer choices are more political than ever. Whether you’re a Trump supporter or a critic, your wallet has the power to speak louder than words.