A Wisconsin craft brewery has lost its state alcohol permit after regulators ruled that a social media promotion offering customers a free beer upon the death of President Donald Trump violated state alcohol regulations. The post, which promised a complimentary pint on the day Trump died, quickly sparked widespread backlash, generating boycott calls, complaints to state officials, and intense online debate.

State regulators concluded that the promotion breached Wisconsin’s rules governing alcohol advertising and the conduct expected of licensed businesses. Officials said permit holders are prohibited from running promotions that encourage violence, unlawful behavior, or actions that could threaten public order. As a result, the brewery’s retail alcohol license was revoked, a fine was imposed, and it was ordered to stop manufacturing and selling alcohol while the action takes effect.

The brewery’s owner, Kirk Bangstad, argues that the post was intended as political satire protected by the First Amendment and says the business was unfairly targeted because of its political views. His legal team maintains that the promotion, while controversial, did not explicitly encourage criminal activity or constitute a direct threat. The brewery has vowed to challenge the state’s decision through the courts.

Legal experts note that businesses holding state-issued liquor licenses are subject to regulations that go beyond general free speech protections. Administrative agencies often have broad authority to discipline or revoke licenses when they determine that a business has violated licensing standards. The brewery cannot legally sell or serve alcohol unless the decision is overturned during the appeals process.