A Kroger employee in Middletown has been fired after writing “racist’s fav drink” on a Starbucks cup ordered in honor of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
Customer Autumn Perkins says she was following an online trend of ordering Kirk’s favorite drink - a Venti Iced Chai Tea Latte with two pumps of vanilla - when she noticed the message.
Kroger confirmed the worker’s termination, calling the action a violation of company policy and inconsistent with its values. The incident drew widespread attention online, with critics pointing to political hostility in everyday interactions and supporters praising Perkins for speaking out.
The Starbucks kiosk inside Kroger is part of a licensed partnership, meaning Kroger oversees hiring and training rather than Starbucks corporate. The company says additional training and accountability measures are being implemented at the store.