Trump Charms Restaurant Workers, Signs MAGA Hats Before Georgia Speech

The former president visited The Varsity in Rome, Georgia ahead of a speaking engagement on the economy.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Former President Donald Trump visited The Varsity restaurant in Rome, Georgia on Thursday, charming the longtime employees and signing MAGA hats for supporters ahead of a speaking engagement on the economy. Trump is in Georgia to campaign for a candidate in the special election for the state's 14th Congressional District.

Why it matters

Trump's visit to The Varsity highlights his continued popularity among his base, particularly in Georgia, a key swing state. The special election for the 14th District is seen as an important test of Trump's influence within the Republican party ahead of the 2024 presidential race.

The details

During his visit, Trump spoke with a Varsity employee who said she had worked at the restaurant for 45 years, to which Trump replied 'You look too young for that!' Trump also signed MAGA hats for supporters who had lined up to see him at the iconic Atlanta-area restaurant.

  • Trump arrived in Rome, Georgia on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
  • The special election for Georgia's 14th Congressional District is scheduled for March 10, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States who is campaigning for a Republican candidate in the special election for Georgia's 14th Congressional District.

Marjorie Taylor Greene

The former representative for Georgia's 14th Congressional District, whose seat is now up for a special election.

The Varsity

A famous fast-food restaurant chain in the Atlanta area known for its hot dogs and burgers.

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What they’re saying

“'45 years? You look too young for that!'”

— Donald Trump (The Gateway Pundit)

“'Thank you for everything!'”

— Supporter (The Gateway Pundit)

What’s next

The special election for Georgia's 14th Congressional District is scheduled for March 10, 2026, and the outcome will be closely watched as a test of Trump's political influence.

The takeaway

Trump's visit to The Varsity and his interactions with the restaurant's longtime employees demonstrate his continued ability to connect with his base, even as he seeks to influence the outcome of a key congressional race in Georgia.