Buc-ee’s, the beloved Texas-based convenience store chain known for its clean bathrooms and beaver mascot, is forcefully rejecting rumors that have spread across social media claiming the company donated to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
“The claim is entirely unfounded,” Jeff Nadalo, general counsel for Buc-ee’s, Ltd., stated in a response to FOX Local. “Neither Beaver nor Buc-ee’s has made any donations to ICE.”
Viral Claims Without Evidence
The unsubstantiated allegations began circulating on various social platforms in January, though no clear origin of the rumors has been identified. Public records show no evidence to support these claims, which have nonetheless gained traction in certain online circles.
Why would such rumors target a roadside chain best known for its oversized gas stations and beef jerky? That remains unclear. What is known is that Buc-ee’s remains privately held since its founding in 1982 by Arch “Beaver” Aplin III in Lake Jackson, Texas. The company is co-owned with Don Wasek and operates without outside investors, maintaining its independence as it has expanded beyond Texas borders in recent years.
Real Donations, Different Cause
While Buc-ee’s hasn’t directed funds toward immigration enforcement, the company has made significant charitable contributions elsewhere. The convenience store giant recently donated $1 million to the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, specifically earmarked for recovery efforts following devastating floods that struck the region on July 4th.
“We really appreciate this,” said Austin Dickson, CEO of the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country. “We are going to be able to put people back in their homes (and be) able to help our first responders.”
The contrast between the company’s actual charitable work and the unfounded rumors highlights the challenge businesses increasingly face in the social media era, where misinformation can spread rapidly without verification.
For the legions of road-trippers who plan their routes around Buc-ee’s locations, the controversy likely changes little. The chain continues its expansion across the American South, bringing its trademark clean restrooms, beaver nuggets, and now, apparently, the occasional need to clear up social media rumors.
