- By Supratik Das
- Sun, 30 Nov 2025 09:32 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
A local bar in Idaho has triggered a political and social media storm after announcing an unusual offer, a month of free beer for anyone who assists US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in identifying and deporting undocumented immigrants. The post, published by Old State Saloon on X, quickly drew national attention and prompted an unexpected reaction from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Bar’s Offer Draws National Spotlight
Old State Saloon, a bar known for its provocative social media presence, including previously declaring June as “Heterosexual Awareness Month,” posted the announcement in bold capital letters, urging locals to help ICE “identify and ultimately deport an illegal from Idaho.” The bar claimed participants would be rewarded with free beer for an entire month.
The post sparked an intense online debate instantaneously. While some users praised the bar for its zero-tolerance immigration enforcement stance, others criticised the business for its alleged vigilantism and perpetuating rhetoric amid a tumultuous political atmosphere.
DHS Reacts With Viral Gif
The DHS intervened shortly after the post gained momentum. In a light-hearted yet pointed response, the agency posted a gif of Earl Sinclair, a character from the popular 1990s TV show Dinosaurs, looking stunned and letting a glass slip from his hand.
The reaction went viral, with many interpreting it as the agency distancing itself from the bar’s approach.bOld State Saloon replied with a brief, “Love it!”, further fueling the online buzz.
https://t.co/NhEdvnUJ3H pic.twitter.com/moA5zbJXjo
— Homeland Security (@DHSgov) November 29, 2025
Immigration Politics Back In Foreground
The controversy comes at a time when the immigration debate in the US has intensified with the renewed drive towards stricter enforcement under the Trump administration. Opinion on immigration policies is sharply divided, and incidents like this continue to push the issue into the national debate.
Idaho authorities have not announced any formal investigation, but officials are monitoring the broader public response. Community organisations in the state, including immigrant-rights groups, have expressed concern about the potential impact on immigrant families who already fear drawing attention.
Residents in Boise and nearby towns shared mixed reactions. Some described the bar’s move as “reckless and inflammatory,” while others defended it as a “creative way” to support federal enforcement.