The founder of the 'Trump Burger' fast-food chain, a Venezuelan immigrant who built a business empire celebrating the former president, has been taken into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in a dramatic operation.
Simon Parada, 37, was detained at his home in Doral, Florida, and is now being held at the Krome Detention Center. He faces imminent deportation back to Venezuela, a country he fled nearly two decades ago.
The Rise and Fall of a Political Fast-Food Empire
Parada's venture, 'Trump Burger', became a cultural flashpoint. The restaurant was less about the food and more a shrine to Donald Trump, decorated with MAGA memorabilia and selling burgers named after Trumpisms like the 'Top Secret Bacon Burger'.
His arrest shatters the American dream he fervently pursued. Parada arrived in the US on a tourist visa in 2005 but remained after it expired. His recent attempts to gain legal residency, including a claim of asylum, were ultimately unsuccessful.
A Business Built on a Political Brand
The Trump Burger concept gained notoriety and attracted a dedicated customer base, but also drew significant criticism and protests. Parada claimed his business was a testament to his support for Trump's policies, particularly on immigration and business.
With its founder now detained, the future of the Trump Burger restaurant is in serious jeopardy. The establishment has been closed since his arrest, with signs on the door stating it is 'Temporarily Closed for Renovations'.
Family Appeals for Help
Parada's wife, Daniela, has made a public plea for assistance, stating her husband is a 'hardworking man' who provides for his family and contributes to his community. She fears for his safety if he is deported to Venezuela, citing the country's ongoing political and economic turmoil.
This case highlights the complex and often harsh realities of the US immigration system, where individuals who have built lives and businesses over many years can still face removal.
