A Black business owner in Atlanta expressed feeling betrayed and blindsided after the Trump campaign held an event at his barbershop, Rocky’s Barbershop, the day before the presidential debate. Owner Rocky Jones, who takes pride in his business and welcoming customers from all backgrounds, said the event was not what he signed up for and that his business has never been about politics.
Jones stated that his goal is to serve his community by providing haircuts and engaging in good conversations, not to host political events. Despite this, prominent Republicans gathered at his barbershop the day before the debate, a situation that left Jones feeling betrayed. He had initially believed he was hosting a small Black business roundtable and was blindsided by the political event.
While Jones was compensated for the two hours he had to close his business for the event, he expressed willingness to give the money back. He warned other business owners to be cautious and do thorough research when being approached for hosting events, especially during election season. The Trump campaign did not provide a response to inquiries from Atlanta News First regarding the event at Rocky’s Barbershop.