Wisconsin Brewery's Liquor License Revoked After Controversial Promotion

Minocqua Brewing Company in Wisconsin has had its liquor license revoked by state officials following a promotion that promised free beer on the day President Donald Trump dies. The notice of revocation, dated July 15, was issued by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue’s Division of Alcoholic Beverages. The brewery's owner, Kirk Bangstad, announced the decision on his Substack, stating that he plans to contest the revocation. The state claims the brewery is facing penalties for selling beer brewed in Illinois without the necessary permits and tax payments. Bangstad, however, believes the action is politically motivated, suggesting that beer distributors and Republicans are behind the move. Wisconsin, a swing state, voted for President Joe Biden in 2020 but was won by Trump in 2024. The brewery, known for its progressive branding and beers named after liberal figures, has a significant following on social media.