Minocqua Brewing Owner Calls for Disruption of 4th of July Parade Amidst Local Disputes and Federal Bill Protest

Minocqua, Wisconsin – Kirk Bangstad, owner of Minocqua Brewing Company, called for local residents to gather and potentially disrupt the town's annual Fourth of July parade. The protest, announced via social media, aims to challenge both local authorities and a federal legislative initiative. According to a tweet, Bangstad plans to "corner politicians and cops to shut down the parade and 'ask them a few questions.'"

The brewing company owner stated his intention to "peacefully disturb, delay, or shut down" the parade, citing grievances against local officials and a federal bill. Bangstad claims his business has been unfairly targeted with zoning violations and that he has faced "repeated" attempts to shut down his brewery. These local disputes include recent arrests of Bangstad and patrons on charges of harassment, bail jumping, and disorderly conduct, stemming from an ongoing conflict with Lakeland Times publisher Gregg Walker.

Court records indicate a history of legal battles between Bangstad and Walker, including a significant defamation lawsuit that resulted in a settlement where Bangstad paid $50,000 and his insurers covered over half a million dollars. Bangstad alleges that recent arrests followed a verbal altercation with Walker, which he characterized as a political protest. The Minocqua Police Department has acknowledged the planned protest, issuing a public notice assuring residents they are "actively monitoring the situation" to ensure the parade's safety and continuity.

Beyond local issues, Bangstad's protest also targets President Donald Trump's "Big, Beautiful Bill" (BBB). He asserts that this bill "will literally [kill] Wisconsinites in order to redistribute wealth to the rich." Minocqua Brewing Company is known for its politically themed products and Bangstad's outspoken progressive activism, which frequently draws attention across Wisconsin.

The call for disruption highlights a tense intersection of local governance, personal disputes, and broader political dissent in the small Wisconsin town. Law enforcement has urged the public not to engage with potential protesters, advising them to allow police to manage any issues that may arise during the Independence Day celebrations.