South Dakota Budweiser distributor, lawmaker says he’s staying out of trans beer can controversy

Anheuser-Busch's partnership with transgender influencer draws national attention

As one of the nation’s top beer companies faces backlash for partnering with a TikTok influencer who identifies as transgender, South Dakota’s local distributor is distancing itself from the controversy.

Beal Distributing owner Arch Beal — a Republican serving in the state Legislature — told The Dakota Scout this week that Anheuser-Busch’s marketing decisions are made by corporate headquarters and have nothing to do with local distributors.

“As far as I’m concerned, I just want people to know from our perspective here, that's not our call,” the Sioux Falls senator said.

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