A traditional dessert, the Charlotte Russe, became the cause of an intense political dispute between the well-known actress and host of “The View,” Whoopi Goldberg, and the Holtermann’s bakery, which has been operating in Staten Island since 1878. The incident, which started with Goldberg’s order being refused, evolved into an issue touching on politics, social polarization, and community relations.
During her show, Goldberg revealed that the bakery refused to accept her order, implying that the decision might be related to her political beliefs. “The Charlotte Russe doesn’t have political beliefs,” she remarked, adding that her order was rejected due to “technical issues,” while a few days later, the same order was accepted by the bakery when her name was not mentioned.
The owner of the bakery, Bill Holtermann, stated that the incident was a misunderstanding. “Our boiler was broken, and we couldn’t fulfill any large orders that day,” he said, denying any political implications. However, Goldberg, through a post on social media, commented that this explanation “seems a bit strange.”
Goldberg’s revelation sparked strong reactions in Staten Island, an area where Donald Trump received overwhelming support in the last elections. Local residents reacted by forming lines outside the bakery in a show of support. Local figures, such as the borough president Vito Fossella, called on Goldberg to apologize. “Let’s leave the incident behind us and move forward,” he said, emphasizing the importance of Holtermann’s as an institution in the community.
The dispute was not limited to statements. Customers flocking to the bakery bought products in large quantities, while the Charlotte Russe sold out within minutes of each new batch. “I came from the other side of Staten Island just to support the bakery,” said one customer. Others expressed their disappointment with the show “The View,” accusing it of promoting a political agenda.
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