Here’s what happened.
A Wisconsin brewery known for its outspoken opposition to President Donald Trump is facing a major setback after state officials moved to revoke key permits that allow the business to operate.
The decision by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue marks the latest chapter in a long-running legal battle involving Minocqua Brewing Company, whose owner has repeatedly drawn national attention for controversial political activism and inflammatory social media posts targeting President Trump.
The brewery now has until August 4 to appeal the state’s decision. If an appeal is filed before the deadline, the company can continue operating while the case moves through Wisconsin’s administrative review process.
Wisconsin Moves to Revoke Brewery Permits
According to state officials, the Wisconsin Department of Revenue has issued notices revoking brewer’s permits for two Minocqua Brewing Company locations, along with an alcohol beverage warehouse permit tied to the business.
The brewery currently operates taprooms in Madison and Minocqua, Wisconsin.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the department said the agency is responsible for enforcing Wisconsin’s alcohol laws fairly and consistently.
Officials said the Division of Alcohol Beverages is legally required to ensure permit holders comply with all applicable laws and regulations and takes enforcement action when violations occur.
The department also confirmed that the brewery has the right to appeal the decision. If an appeal is filed, a Department of Revenue hearing examiner will review the case and make recommendations before a final ruling is issued.
Brewery Owner Promises Legal Fight
Owner Kirk Bangstad says he has no intention of backing down.
In a message to supporters, Bangstad vowed to fight the state’s decision “tooth and nail,” insisting he would continue defending his business through the legal system.
He also asked supporters to contribute to a legal defense fund, claiming previous legal battles have cost his company more than $100,000 before even reaching a courtroom.
Bangstad argued that keeping the brewery open has required repeated legal challenges and said additional fundraising will be necessary as the latest dispute unfolds.
State Investigation Centered on Alcohol Regulations
According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, the permit revocations stem from an investigation involving beer transported from Illinois into Wisconsin.
State regulators allege canned beer was moved into Wisconsin without obtaining the required permits and without paying applicable taxes required under state law.
Bangstad has disputed the allegations and argued that any administrative or tax-related issues do not justify revoking the company’s permits or disrupting its operations.
The legal dispute is expected to continue if the brewery formally appeals before the August deadline.
Brewery Became Known for Anti-Trump Posts
Although the current dispute focuses on regulatory issues, Minocqua Brewing Company has become widely known for its political messaging.
The brewery drew national criticism earlier this year after publishing social media posts referencing free beer following the death of President Trump. The posts did not initially mention Trump by name but were widely understood to be referring to him based on the surrounding context.
Following the attempted attack at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner while President Trump was attending, the brewery posted another message suggesting it had “almost” reached its promised promotion, generating another wave of criticism online.
The company’s social media activity has frequently sparked backlash from conservatives while earning support from many progressive activists.
Political Activism Beyond the Brewery
Bangstad is also the founder of the Minocqua Brewing Company SuperPAC, a political organization that actively supports progressive candidates and works to defeat Republican elected officials.
According to the group’s stated mission, it seeks to oppose Republicans whom it accuses of promoting claims about the 2020 election and mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic.
The brewery’s political activism has made it one of the country’s most recognizable businesses blending commerce with partisan advocacy.
When contacted about the permit revocation, Bangstad declined to discuss the case directly and instead made additional political remarks criticizing President Trump, former Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, and Fox News.
What Happens Next?
The brewery’s future now depends on the appeals process.
If Bangstad files an appeal before August 4, Minocqua Brewing Company can continue operating while the case is reviewed by Wisconsin officials. If the permit revocations are ultimately upheld, the business could face significant operational challenges.
The case has attracted attention well beyond Wisconsin because it combines regulatory enforcement with years of political controversy surrounding one of the nation’s most outspoken anti-Trump businesses.
Supporters of the brewery argue the state is overreaching in its enforcement efforts. Critics counter that businesses must comply with state regulations regardless of their political views.
The outcome of the appeal will determine whether Minocqua Brewing Company can continue operating under its current licenses or face a major disruption to its business, making this a closely watched legal battle with both political and financial implications.
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