Need a Drink This Election Year? A Booze Trade Association Is Founding Its Own (Fictional) Political Party Centered Around Cocktails

The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States created a fictional political party this election year. (Photo: AP Photo/Bebeto Matthews, File)

On Tuesday, The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States announced the launch of its very own political party — the Cocktail Party. The brand introduced the Cocktail Party (which is, unfortunately, a fictitious party) to spread unity and awareness around key issues the distilled spirits industry faces.

The Cocktail Party’s platform involves responsibly expanding spirits access for consumers, making purchases more convenient, fairer alcohol taxes and greater support of hospitality businesses.

“Whether you’re a part of the Republican Party, Democratic Party or an Independent, everyone’s welcome at the Cocktail Party, and we hope you’ll join us,” DISCUS President and CEO Chris Swonger said in a news release. “The Cocktail Party is a great way for adult consumers to get involved in the legislative process while having a little spirited fun along the way. Together we can raise our glass and lift our voice in support of the spirits industry.”

DISCUS dates back to 1973, when the Bourbon Institutes, Distilled Spirits Institute and the Licensed Beverage Industries all joined forces to form DISCUS. The brand refers to itself as a “national trade association” that represents leading brands in the U.S.

At a San Diego conference discussing the launch, DISCUS introduced a fictional political candidate named Cher A. Spirit. The fictional political nominee greeted those in attendance and rallied support around the platform.

“Adult consumers deserve the freedom to responsibly enjoy their favorite distilled spirits products when, where and how they want,” Spirit said in the news release. “Our platform, which focuses on increasing consumer convenience is something all spirits enthusiasts can toast to.”

The 2024 Election Thus Far

NBC News shared the results of Super Tuesday, which took place March 5. Former President Donald Trump is shaping up to be the frontrunner for the Republican party. Trump will run against current President Joe Biden.

NBC reported on Sunday that after the president’s State of the Union, the Biden team raised $10 million. This looks to be a considerably much rosier outlook than the former president, who grapples with increasing financial woes.

Reuters reported on Friday that Donald Trump posted a $91.6 million bond to cover the defamation verdict which favored the writer E. Jean Carroll. A Manhattan jury ruled in favor of Carroll after Trump denied her claims that he sexually assaulted her.

The New York Times reported that Carroll was considering a third lawsuit against Trump over new attacks from the ex-president, which could amount to another major expense for the Republican frontrunner.

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