In what feels like seventy-five years ago but was actually July 2020, Goya’s CEO Robert Unanue faced public criticism after voicing his support of Donald Trump. “We’re all truly blessed at the same time to have a leader like President Donald Trump, who is a builder,” Unanue said at the announcement of the Hispanic Prosperity Initiative executive order. “We have an incredible builder. And we pray. We pray for our leadership, our president, and we pray for our country that we will continue to prosper and to grow.” The comments sparked a boycott of the Goya brand, despite its products being a staple for many Latinx Americans and anyone who eats beans, as Trump had a history of racist and xenophobic comments, and supported policies that targeted Hispanic immigrants.
Last week, Goya s board of directors voted to have CEO Robert Unanue silenced after his comments during an appearance on Fox Business, in which he expressed his support of former President Donald Trump and claimed that the presidential election was rigged.
According to the
New York Post, the board s decision means that Unanue must now obtain permission before making any media appearances. Bob does not speak for Goya Foods when he speaks on TV, said Goya board member and third-generation owner Andy Unanue. The family has diverse views on politics, but politics is not part of our business. Our political point of views are irrelevant.