On March 13, Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders was asked to leave a local eatery, The Croissanterie, in Little Rock after her surprise visit reportedly caused discomfort among the staff and patrons.
This incident has led to a public dispute between the Governor’s office and the restaurant, with differing claims of “threatening” behavior and questions about professional boundaries.
The Confrontation at The Croissanterie
The incident began when Governor Sanders arrived unannounced at the restaurant with two guests and a security detail provided by the Arkansas Police Executive Protection Detail. According to the restaurant owners, the presence of Sanders’ party created a difficult situation, forcing them to choose between staying politically neutral and ensuring the comfort of their staff.
In a statement, the owners explained that allowing the Governor to stay could be seen as a lack of support for the community that makes up the majority of their team. On the other hand, they acknowledged that asking her to leave could be viewed as discrimination based on political beliefs.
Key Details of the Encounter:
- Duration: Sanders spent approximately 75 minutes at the restaurant before being asked to leave. She had already paid the bill when the request was made.
- The Request: The restaurant owners communicated their concerns through Sanders’ security detail, asking her to conclude her visit. A second reminder was issued 30 minutes later.
- The Atmosphere: According to Sanders, a group in the restaurant shouted, “It’s time to leave,” and directed offensive gestures at her.
Conflicting Accounts of Hostility
The fallout from this encounter has led to two starkly different narratives regarding the events inside the restaurant…