Overview

• A TikTok from a Yucaipa, California, store showed a barista refusing to write “Charlie Kirk,” citing a rule against political names.
• Starbucks stated there are no restrictions on using Charlie Kirk’s name and reiterated that ordinary names, including public figures’, are permitted.
• The company said political slogans or offensive phrases are still prohibited and reminded staff of prior guidance intended to prevent misuse of the name-calling system.
• After reviewing timestamped footage, Starbucks said a “Loser” message on a Norwood Park, Chicago, cup was not written by employees and the store briefly closed for part of a day.
• The video fueled a wave of online reactions including negative reviews, tribute orders, and petitions, while some baristas reported earlier uncertainty about how to handle such requests.