Starbucks does not get involved in national political campaigns—even if its former CEO runs for president.
That’s the message sent in a letter to Starbucks employees this week by CEO Kevin Johnson, in the wake of the announcement that the coffee giant’s former leader is mulling a White House run as an independent.
“Many of us will inevitably be asked if the company supports a possible presidential candidacy of Howard and what changes for Starbucks,” Johnson wrote. “As a company, we don’t get involved in national political campaigns. And nothing changes for Starbucks.”
Schultz, meanwhile, in a column published Tuesday in USA Today, makes repeated mentions of the Seattle-based coffee giant in making the case for his electability, noting the company’s progressive efforts, including health insurance, stock ownership and free college tuition for employees.
“I have lived the American dream thanks to hard work, a little luck, kindness from strangers, and countless people who helped me build Starbucks,” Schultz wrote.
Schultz’s announcement early this week that he’s considering a presidential bid touched off widespread debate across social media and in the press.
Johnson, in his letter to employees, said what the company does support is “the pursuit of doing good,” including initiatives to promote equality and inclusion, community problem-solving and sustainability.
“As Starbucks partners, we have a responsibility to always recognize and respect the diversity of perspectives of all customers and partners on these topics,” he said.
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