In a move that’s sending shockwaves through conservative circles, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has arrested the owner of a MAGA-themed restaurant chain in Texas, raising questions about immigration enforcement and political loyalty.
Roland Mehrez Beainy, 28, a Lebanese-born entrepreneur behind the popular Trump Burger franchise, was taken into custody on May 16 for allegedly overstaying his visa. According to ICE, Beainy entered the U.S. legally in 2019 on a nonimmigrant visa but failed to leave by February 12, 2024, as required under federal law.
An ICE spokesperson emphasized that “political affiliation or business ownership does not place anyone above the law” and that the administration is “restoring integrity to our immigration system by holding all violators accountable.”
Beainy was granted bond on June 13 and is scheduled for an immigration court hearing on November 18 in Houston.
The Rise of a MAGA Burger Empire
Beainy founded his first Trump Burger location in Bellville, Texas, in 2020, promising “great burgers with exceptional spirit.” The brand quickly expanded to four locations across Texas, each decorated in bold red, white, and blue—with menu items proudly bearing pro-Trump names.
- Trump Burger – A patriotic classic.
- Trump Tower Burger – A massive multi-patty creation.
- First Lady Chicken Sandwich – A nod to Melania Trump.
- Biden Burger – A $50.99 satirical menu item described as having “old tomato and our oldest bun,” listed as “unavailable due to cheating and inflation.”
The restaurants feature burger buns branded with “TRUMP” and walls filled with MAGA memorabilia, making them a hotspot for conservative diners and political tourists.
Legal Trouble with the Trump Organization
Despite sharing the same political message, Beainy’s business drew legal fire earlier this year when the Trump Organization sent a cease-and-desist letter. The letter accused Trump Burger of infringing on the former president’s trademark and misleading customers into believing the restaurants were officially endorsed.
The letter demanded:
- Immediate removal of all Trump branding from menus, signage, and advertising.
- A full accounting of all revenue generated using the Trump name.
- Cessation of using any Trump-related names, logos, or imagery.
Failure to comply, the letter warned, would result in legal action.
Immigration Enforcement Sends a Message
The arrest is being seen as a clear reminder that immigration law enforcement applies equally—even to those who publicly support President Trump and his policies.
White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson told The Fayette County Record:
“The Trump administration is committed to enforcing our federal immigration laws.”
For many supporters, the case represents a tough but necessary stand against visa overstays and illegal immigration—core issues that fueled Trump’s political rise.
What’s Next for Trump Burger?
With Beainy’s immigration status now in question, the future of the Trump Burger chain remains uncertain. The November 18 hearing could determine whether he continues serving burgers in Texas—or is forced to close his doors and return to Lebanon.
For now, loyal customers and supporters are watching closely, and the story is likely to remain a talking point in conservative media as it highlights the intersection of immigration law, business ownership, and American politics.