Brewery Owner Who Wants Trump Dead Launches Governor Bid

A Wisconsin brewery owner who mocked a foiled assassination attempt on President Trump now launches a gubernatorial bid after federal agents knock on his door.

Story Snapshot

Kirk Bangstad, Minocqua Brewing Co. owner, announced his run for Wisconsin governor in a Facebook livestream following Secret Service scrutiny.
Bangstad’s post ridiculed the April 25, 2026, shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, referencing “#freebeerday” for Trump’s death.
He seeks 2,000 signatures by May 15 to enter the November race, with June 1 filing deadline approaching.
Prior history includes 2020 Democratic Assembly loss, anti-Trump super PAC, and lawsuits to bar Trump from ballots.
Federal interview stemmed from perceived threats in brewery’s repeated “free beer the day he dies” promotions.

Bangstad’s Controversial Post Sparks Federal Attention

Kirk Bangstad owns Minocqua Brewing Company in Minocqua, Wisconsin, a northern tourism spot. On days after the April 25, 2026, foiled shooting targeting President Trump at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, the brewery posted on Facebook. The message read: “Well, we almost got #freebeerday. Either a brother or sister in the Resistance needs to work on their marksmanship or he faked another assassination.” A red tie image symbolized Trump. The post promised free beer “the day it happens.”

Federal agents from the Secret Service and FBI interviewed Bangstad at the brewery over these perceived threats. The Secret Service confirmed the visit. This followed a January 2026 post offering “free beer, all day long, the day he dies,” implying Trump. Bangstad told Fox News he welcomed celebrating the “impending death of a twice-impeached convicted felon,” barring red hats.

Announcement Ties Brewery Brand to Political Ambition

On a Saturday in late April or early May 2026, Bangstad went live on Facebook for nearly an hour. He declared, “I’m not gonna stand for this anymore,” announcing his intent to run for Wisconsin governor. He framed the bid as defending democracy against Trump. Bangstad seeks 2,000 signatures by May 15; the Wisconsin Elections Commission sets June 1 as the filing deadline for the November election.

Details remain unclear on partisan endorsement or declaration of candidacy status. Bangstad critiques the Democratic field, including frontrunner Francesca Hong, a friend. He previously employed Rebecca Cooke, now running against Republican Derrick Van Orden. His history includes a 2020 Democratic nomination loss in the 34th Assembly District to Republican Sean Duffy.

Pattern of Provocations Defines Bangstad’s Profile

Minocqua Brewing brands itself as a progressive hub, selling merchandise like “I wish it was free beer day” shirts. Bangstad founded a super PAC targeting Trump and Republicans. Before the 2024 election, he sued to remove Trump from Wisconsin ballots. Republicans like Rep. Tony Wied demand accountability for the brewery’s gloating over violence. Rep. Alfonso, tied to the Duffy family, notes Bangstad’s Democratic network, rejecting the “random crazy guy” label.

https://twitter.com/captain_ze69496/status/2051964106362511564

These facts align with common sense: repeated calls for celebration upon a political opponent’s death cross into dangerous territory, especially post-assassination attempt. Conservative values prioritize civility and reject rhetoric inciting harm, regardless of political disguise as “resistance.”

Challenges Ahead in Crowded Gubernatorial Race

U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany leads Republicans in the 2026 Wisconsin governor race. Bangstad’s entry could fragment Democratic votes amid post-2024 Trump win tensions. Short-term, controversy boosts brewery notoriety and merchandise sales but invites boycotts from moderates and conservatives. Minocqua locals and tourists face polarized impacts.

Long-term, Bangstad tests anti-Trump rhetoric boundaries. Signature collection progress stays unknown as of May 6, 2026. Failure risks electoral backlash; success amplifies national divides previewing midterms. The craft beer industry’s politicization draws scrutiny.