Let’s talk about Culver’s political donations

By Christina Lorey

April 7, 2025

Yes, the Wisconsin-founded chain has given to Republicans, but it’s also supported Democrats — and never Donald Trump.

Campaign contributions are public record — and Craig Culver has a decades-long history of supporting BOTH political parties ⤵️

While he’s given to Republican Governors Scott Walker and Tommy Thompson — he’s also donated to Democratic Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Democratic Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle.

🇺🇸 MORE: Donor Lookup — See Who’s Donating to Whom

WHY does this matter? Since the Supreme Court decided businesses are people too and can pour large amounts into political campaigns — it’s important for customers to know how a business chooses to use THEIR dollars!

Personally, I still feel good about supporting Culver’s based on how the company treats its PEOPLE.

An entire corporate culture speaks louder than any single campaign donation — and Culver’s imposes several requirements on all franchise owners that are worth mentioning ⤵️

💙 Owner-operators are required to work in their restaurants, which helps them understand front-line worker conditions first-hand.

💙 They’re also required to give money back to their community, which is why you frequently see franchises partnering with local schools and nonprofits.

💙 Finally, EVERY franchise participates in Culver’s “Thank You Farmers Project,” which promotes eco-friendly agriculture practices, fair wages for local farmers, and more opportunities for future farmers (through FFA scholarships).

MORE: 6 Things You (Probably) Don’t Know About Culver’s

Author

Christina Lorey

Christina is an Edward R. Murrow-winning journalist and former producer, reporter, and anchor for TV stations in Madison and Moline. When she’s not writing or asking questions, you can find her volunteering with Girls on the Run, the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, and various mental health organizations. Send all story tips to [email protected] and sign up for her newsletter here.

View all posts

CATEGORIES: LOCAL BUSINESS

Support Our Cause

Thank you for taking the time to read our work. Before you go, we hope you'll consider supporting our values-driven journalism, which has always strived to make clear what's really at stake for Wisconsinites and our future.

Since day one, our goal here at UpNorthNews has always been to empower people across the state with fact-based news and information. We believe that when people are armed with knowledge about what's happening in their local, state, and federal governments—including who is working on their behalf and who is actively trying to block efforts aimed at improving the daily lives of Wisconsin families—they will be inspired to become civically engaged.