The McDonald’s logo is pictured in Los Angeles, California. Photo credit: Lucy Nicholson | Reuters
McDonald’s is kicking off a massive summer hiring spree, aiming to bring 375,000 new workers on board across the U.S. This announcement came during a press conference on Monday, where U.S. Labour Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer joined the fast-food giant.
This hiring goal marks one of McDonald’s’ largest recruitment drives in recent years. It also coincides with the 10th anniversary of the company’s “Archways to Opportunity” program, which helps employees access education support, such as tuition assistance and high school completion programs. Chavez-DeRemer praised the program, noting its impact on workers trying to further their education while working.
McDonald’s usually expands its workforce during the summer to meet increased demand, but this year’s target surpasses even the 260,000 new hires it aimed for in 2020 when it reopened dining rooms during the pandemic.
This announcement also hints at McDonald’s continued efforts to stay close to the current administration. The company has had a strong relationship with President Donald Trump throughout his political career. In a notable move, McDonald’s contributed $1 million to his second inauguration—its first such donation in over ten years.
Behind the scenes, McDonald’s and other fast-food leaders like Wendy’s and Yum Brands have reportedly met with Chavez-DeRemer to discuss key industry issues, such as pro-union legislation and the controversial “joint employer” rule. This regulation could shift responsibility for franchise employees from individual owners to the parent company, something many fast-food chains oppose.
The company’s relationship with the Trump administration may also be a strategic move. Health-related initiatives like Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s “Make America Healthy Again” campaign or stricter labour rules from the Department of Labour could pose hurdles for fast-food businesses. By working closely with top officials, McDonald’s appears to be securing its position and influence.
Despite its political connections, McDonald’s has tried to remain neutral in the public eye. When former Vice President Kamala Harris claimed she had once worked at McDonald’s, Trump mocked her, but the company responded by distancing itself from the political banter, saying it does not keep records going back to the 1980s and does not consider itself a political brand.
With over 900 new restaurant locations planned in the U.S. by 2027, McDonald’s continues to grow. The company says one in eight Americans has worked under the golden arches at some point, a number that’s about to grow significantly if it reaches its new hiring goal.
