‘Shop somewhere else’: Trump supporters told to avoid NE Ohio music store

Willoughby store owner softens position following backlash

‘Shop somewhere else’: Trump supporters told to avoid NE Ohio music store
By John Deike | February 19, 2019 at 6:21 PM EST - Updated February 20 at 7:42 PM

WILLOUGHBY, OH (WOIO) - The message is blunt: if you’re a Donald Trump supporter, then avoid Joe’s Music in Willoughby.

The controversial store policy was delivered via Facebook on Tuesday afternoon:

The store’s owner added this to the post’s comment section writing, in part:

“...I just don’t want dirty money. Please, just shop somewhere else. And grow up. Ty.”

The posts have since been deleted following a backlash of complaints, and the owner struck a softer tone Tuesday evening while talking to Cleveland 19.

On Wednesday, the owner further elaborated on his position, saying he’s not telling people they can’t shop at his store, he’s asking them:

“Let me be very clear this is not a ban. I am asking people to make a choice. There is a difference between asking and telling. I am not refusing service to anyone..."

The local music shop, which has been in business for about 15 years, sells instruments and offers lessons, according to the store’s website.

Return to Cleveland 19 for updates on this story.

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