Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders was asked to leave the Croissanterie restaurant in Little Rock on March 13 after the establishment informed her that its employees felt threatened by her presence.
According to the restaurant, Sanders and two other women were dining at the venue when the owner requested they depart. The governor responded with a statement emphasizing Arkansas’ hospitality values: “Arkansans are known for their warm hospitality, and while that restaurant certainly doesn’t meet that standard, my administration will continue to focus on lifting Arkansans up, not tearing others down with discrimination and hate.”
The Croissanterie issued its own statement noting employees were surprised by Sanders’ arrival and uncertain how to respond. The restaurant said it initially allowed her to remain but later requested she leave after an hour, citing concerns about staff members who “expressed they were uncomfortable.” Restaurant officials confirmed a member of Sanders’ security detail sent a message for her to conclude her visit following initial requests, and she departed without incident. They also stated that contrary to reports, many customers were unaware of the situation and there was no applause when the governor left.
This incident marks a recent repeat of similar events in Sanders’ past. In 2018, while serving as President Trump’s press secretary, Sanders had been asked to leave The Red Hen restaurant by its owner who cited her role in what he called an “inhumane and unethical” administration. At that time, Sanders left the establishment and later condemned any hate or vandalism directed at it.
Sanders was elected governor of Arkansas in 2022 with 65% of the vote but received only 38% of the vote in Pulaski County, home to Little Rock and the state capital.
