Wisconsin Brewery Faces Closure After Losing Alcohol License Amid Political Controversy

The Minocqua Brewing Co. in Madison, Wisconsin, is likely to cease operations by the end of the year after the state revoked its alcohol permits, according to the brewery's owner. The revocation follows allegations of violations related to the transport of beer from Illinois without the necessary permits and tax payments.

The Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) issued the permit revocation for both the Minocqua and Madison locations. The brewery has contested the state's actions, accusing officials of targeting the business due to its outspoken political messaging, which has frequently been critical of President Donald Trump.

Minocqua Brewing Co. has gained notoriety for its anti-Trump stance, including social media posts offering free beer on the day of Trump's death. One such post on January 22 stated, "Free beer, all day long the day he dies." The brewery later clarified that this promotion would apply to its Madison taproom if Trump died during the summer months when the Minocqua location is typically open year-round.

Following an incident at the White House Correspondents' Dinner where Trump was present, the brewery posted on Facebook, "Well, we almost got #freebeerday." The company also previously offered half-price beer in anticipation of the death of Senator Mitch McConnell, posting on Instagram, "When they announce that McConnell’s Faustian dance has finally ended, we’re gonna start serving our beer at ‘half price,’ because we promised #halfpricebeerday on the day they unplug the ventilator."

Kirk Bangstad, the owner of Minocqua Brewing Co., is also the founder of the Minocqua Brewing Company SuperPAC. This political action committee aims to remove Republican officials who have promoted election falsehoods and downplayed the severity of COVID-19, according to the brewery's website.

The DOR stated that a hearing on the company's appeal is scheduled for November 18, and the permit revocation will not take effect until all appeals are concluded. The department maintains its commitment to fair and consistent enforcement of alcohol beverage regulations in Wisconsin, taking action when laws are not followed.