Popular Taco Shop in RivCo Faces Backlash For CEO's MAGA Ties

SAN DIEGO, CA — The CEO of a popular chain of Mexican restaurants in Southern California has come under fire on social media for his reported ties to MAGA, triggering calls for a boycott.

TikTok user @harrie835 posted a video accusing Roberto’s Taco Shop CEO Reynaldo Robledo of being a Trump supporter, sharing posts made by an account in Robledo’s name on social media sites including Facebook. The TikTok user says she exposes "Latino MAGA businesses." After the TikTok video was shared, posts were removed from a Facebook page in Robledo’s name, SFGate reported.

Roberto’s Taco Shop has more than 80 locations in California, Nevada, and Texas, and has many locations in San Diego County. The first restaurant, which was opened in 1964 in National City, is believed to be the originator of the California burrito.

The company's Nevada office issued a statement on Instagram on Thursday, which read:

“Roberto’s Taco Shop is proud to be a Latino-owned and operated franchise that serves diverse communities across Nevada. While our CEO may hold personal political beliefs, it is important to note that each of our 49 franchisees operate their stores independently. The day-to-day operations and livelihoods of our 600 team members reflect the hard work, values, and cultural heritage of families, many of whom are Latino immigrants, who are dedicated to serving their local communities.”

Roberto's Taco Shop responded further to Patch, emphasizing the Latino immigrant ties to the company.

"Roberto’s Taco Shop locations are independently owned by local families, all of them Latino immigrants, many who started with the company 20+ years ago and whose livelihoods depend on these businesses. Our focus remains on serving our communities every day.

These small business owners create hundreds of jobs, and their focus is simple: serving great food and supporting the neighborhoods they call home. Our restaurants reflect the diversity, resilience, and culture of the communities we serve every day."