A bar in Idaho has ignited a firestorm on social media with a highly controversial promotion that offers free beer in exchange for information leading to the deportation of undocumented immigrants. The Old State Saloon's unique and provocative campaign has drawn a massive online response, blending humor, shock, and political commentary.
The Viral Offer: Free Beer for a Month
The central promise from the Old State Saloon was straightforward yet shocking. The establishment announced it would give free beer for one month to any customer who assists U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in identifying and ultimately deporting an individual living in the country illegally. The bar laid out clear instructions for potential informants, directing them to send detailed evidence, including photos, videos, and event summaries, to a dedicated email address: deportations@oldstatesaloon.com.
In a series of playful yet provocative tweets, the bar amplified its message. One post read, "Merry Snitchmas! Snitch on illegals and get a month of free beer!" Another encouraged participation with the phrase, "Let's make deportation fun!!" The promotion even extended a bizarre olive branch to the very individuals it targeted, offering one free beer to any undocumented immigrant who chooses to self-deport before ICE arrives, asking them to make a reservation at the phone number 208-244-0648.
Social Media Erupts with Mixed Reactions
The saloon's posts rapidly went viral, capturing the fascination of social media users worldwide. The reaction was a complex mix of amusement, curiosity, and sharp criticism. Many users responded with humor, questioning the specifics of the offer. One user joked, "I mean I’m more of a whiskey guy… can we reach a compromise here?" while another asked, "Can I substitute burgers?"
Support for the initiative was also evident. Some users expressed a patriotic sentiment, with one commenting, "God bless you. What you are doing, if successful, helps the entire nation." Others showed enthusiasm for the concept itself, with one person stating, "What a freaking fantastic idea," and another noting, "Makin me want to come to Idaho just to support." There were also calls to expand the program, with a user from Texas asking, "Any interest in expanding to TX? I would gladly go out and locate illegals for an offer like that!"
However, not all feedback was positive. Some pointed out the potential economic irony of the situation, with one astute observer commenting, "You guys probably rely on that workforce and you don’t want to lose it." The promotion even managed to attract the attention of official channels, as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) acknowledged the viral campaign by reposting it with a GIF expressing surprise.
A Campaign That Sparked a National Conversation
The Old State Saloon's marketing stunt, whether intended as a serious political statement or merely as a tactic to gain publicity, succeeded in generating a massive online discussion. By tying a common social lubricant—beer—to the deeply divisive issue of immigration enforcement, the bar managed to tap into the zeitgeist. The episode highlights how local business promotions can quickly escalate into national news, reflecting the polarized opinions on immigration policy in the United States. The conversation, fueled by a mix of shock, satire, and support, continues to unfold across digital platforms.
