California Mexican restaurant firmly supports Mike Lindell after backlash

On October 6, Tres Chiles Picosos posted a photo of Lindell alongside two staffers, thanking the businessman for visiting the local business.

"Thank you for supporting Local Businesses in Humboldt County!!! We hope you visit us again," the post stated.

In response to the post, a number of Facebook users expressed their anger, stating that they would not be returning to the local restaurant.

In response to the backlash, Tres Chiles Picosos expressed that the post was not meant to be political, praised Lindell’s character, and shared the struggles their restaurant has faced.

"It's very unfortunate a positive post we made on our social media page that was intended to thank a tourist for supporting a local establishment in Humboldt County went so political. This was not a political post," the post began.

"So many local small businesses are suffering and closing. To see tourists come into our area and stay several days dining out, spending money at many local establishments means supporting Humboldt County's local businesses. Our own local people are suffering tremendously from the economy and many are not able to travel outside their homes to support any business."

The post continued to say that they are "very disappointed" in those both inside and outside the community that left negative comments on the post.

"Just because you do not like someone due to their political affiliation, race or religion, does not give you the right to pass judgement or boycott a business," the post read.

"This particular gentleman and his family were so very nice and respectful to our Hispanic staff. It's unfortunate to read such negative comments about him, as we saw first hand the respect and gratitude he displayed towards our staff.

"We are appreciative of all tourist business and have no bias," the post continued. "ANY customer that comes into our establishment, we treat them with respect and do not pass any judgement on or turn anyone away due to your personal biases whether they be political, race-related or religious affiliation. All are welcome in our restaurant. We support all forms of life. There should be more love and joy in the world than hate and negativity that was mentioned in this post. Everyone is welcome at Tres Chile's Picosos and we love all of our patrons."

While the follow-up post contained more comments than likes by Tuesday afternoon, many of the comments came in support of the business.

Speaking with Mercury News, co-owner Michelle Hill said, “I didn’t know about the affiliation with Donald Trump. The staff didn’t even know who he was until he was leaving.”

“Even if I did know, I would’ve done the same,” Hill said. “If Joe Biden came in, we would’ve done the same. If Donald Trump came in, we would’ve done the same.”

“Everyone’s gonna get the same treatment,” she said. “As long as they’re respectful and pay their bill.”