Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders was asked to depart a local eatery on March 13 after a surprise visit created what ownership described as a “difficult position” for staff and patrons. The incident at The Croissanterie has sparked a public dispute between the Governor’s office and the establishment over claims of “threatening” behavior versus professional boundaries.
Escalating Tensions at The Croissanterie
The confrontation began when Governor Sanders arrived unannounced at the Little Rock-based restaurant accompanied by two guests and a contingent of the Arkansas Police Executive Protection Detail. According to a statement released by the restaurant owners, the presence of the Governor’s party forced a choice between political neutrality and the comfort of their workforce.
“Allowing her to stay risked being perceived as a lack of support for the community that makes up the majority of our team,” the owners stated. Conversely, they acknowledged that asking her to leave could be interpreted as discrimination based on political beliefs.
Key Details of the Encounter:
- Duration: The Governor’s office reports Sanders was seated for approximately 75 minutes and had already settled the bill before being asked to leave.
- The Request: Owners passed a message through the Governor’s security detail to “encourage the governor to conclude her visit.” A second reminder was issued 30 minutes later.
- The Atmosphere: Sanders alleged a group in the restaurant shouted, “It’s time to leave,” and directed offensive gestures toward her.
Conflicting Accounts of Hostility
The fallout from the visit has resulted in two distinct narratives regarding the conduct of those inside the restaurant.
The Governor’s Position
In a statement to The Daily Wire, Sanders claimed the owners told her that her presence made employees feel “threatened.” She criticized the establishment for failing to meet the state’s standards of “warm hospitality,” contrasting the incident with her administration’s goal of “lifting Arkansans up.”
Sanders is the daughter of Mike Huckabee, the former Arkansas Governor and current U.S. Ambassador to Israel.
The Restaurant’s Defense
The Croissanterie owners denied that anyone used the word “threatened” during the exchange. While they admitted a customer—not an employee—made an “inappropriate hand gesture,” they maintained the situation was handled internally. They clarified that their decision was rooted in a desire to support employees and guests who expressed they were “uncomfortable” with the Governor’s presence.
Political Flashpoints in Private Business
This incident highlights the ongoing friction between high-profile political figures and private business owners in a polarized climate. The Croissanterie emphasized that their priority remained the well-being of their team and the “majority of the community” they serve, rather than catering to a specific political visitor.
As of Thursday evening, the Governor’s office maintains that the restaurant fell short of professional standards, while the restaurant stands by its decision to prioritize its staff’s sentiment.
