Lochel’s Bakery in Hatboro, PA, is experiencing a surge in orders for its election-themed cookies, part of a poll started in 2008. Offering cookies decorated for Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, the bakery has seen increased sales surpassing previous elections, with customers traveling from afar and notably boosting their presence in the politically significant Pennsylvania region.
In Hatboro, Pennsylvania, Lochel’s Bakery has gained notable attention for its unique election cookie poll, a whimsical tradition that began during the 2008 presidential campaign. Originally conceived as a lighthearted interaction between the bakery’s owners and their customers, it has blossomed into a significant event, attracting widespread interest and orders from numerous locations, including Alaska. The bakery offers 4-inch round sugar cookies, each decorated with either blue and white sprinkles and labeled for Democratic candidate Kamala Harris or red and white sprinkles for Republican candidate Donald Trump. The purchase of each cookie contributes to the respective candidate’s vote tally in this informal poll. Since its inception, the cookie poll has demonstrated a surprising degree of accuracy in predicting election outcomes, having correctly forecasted the winners during its first three iterations. However, it faltered in 2020 when Donald Trump lost to Democrat Joe Biden. This year, Kathy Lochel, whose family has run the bakery for three generations, has reported unprecedented demand for the cookies, surpassing sales from the previous election cycle. She emphasized the enjoyable atmosphere surrounding the cookie polling experience, characterizing it as “a fun, non-stressful tally.” Lochel’s Bakery expects to fulfill all orders prior to the upcoming Election Day on November 5, and customers have made the trip from hours away to obtain their cookies more swiftly. The bakery’s location in Pennsylvania, a pivotal battleground state, has likely contributed to its increasing popularity, particularly as Trump shared the cookie poll story on his social media platform, leading to heightened enthusiasm among his supporters.
The cookie poll at Lochel’s Bakery has become a cultural phenomenon that adds a playful twist to the serious nature of electoral politics. Established in 2008, the initiative promotes community engagement and light-hearted competition during election seasons. Over the years, it has attracted attention not just locally but also nationally, with an increasing number of shipments and a growing customer base that reflects the bakery’s significant impact amidst the political landscape. With Pennsylvania being a critical swing state, the bakery’s role in gauging public sentiment through its cookie sales is particularly noteworthy and provides insight into voter preferences leading up to elections.
In summary, Lochel’s Bakery in Hatboro, Pennsylvania, has successfully transformed a humorous tradition into a valuable community engagement tool through its election cookie poll. The bakery’s unique initiative, characterized by its festive cookies supporting presidential candidates, has not only captured the attention of local residents but has also drawn customers and shipments from distant locations. As election day approaches, the enthusiasm surrounding the cookie poll continues to increase, reflecting the bakery’s significant role in the local election culture and community bonding.
Original Source: whyy.org
