Joys of being homeGreggs, good cheddar and a lot of truculence

Donald Trump's appearance in criminal court has raised many questions, constitutional and otherwise, but on the evidence of the first day I find myself most curious about the former president's McDonald's order.

- Emma Brockes 

Monday 

During jury selection last week, the Daily Mail reported on a $700 (£560) order put in by Trump staffers at the McDonald's branch closest to the court, which included 27 orders of fries, 27 quarter pounders and nuggets, but no drinks. A McDonald's employee complained anonymously that they didn't leave a tip - in line with everyone who eats at McDonald's, but still.

Trump's history of ordering McDonald's is often presented as further evidence of the man's barbarity. Back in 2019, the New Yorker called the then president's insistence on ordering fast food to the White House for visiting college football teams, a piece of "banality". It was a PR move, of course, another way for him to stick two fingers up at "coastal elites". But in a man whose opinion turns on a dime depending on the audience, the McDonald's thing has also been a consistent expression of taste.

It is speculated that Trump loves McDonald's because of his fear of poisoning - anonymous fast food is safer than reliance on a chef - but I think in this case the guy just loves McDonald's.

Anyway, this week, the Trump order was down to $500, although the Mail couldn't confirm details of what was in it after management cracked down on staff leaking information. And while these orders were presented as "huge", the fact is - a much commented on reality in New York - McDonald's prices have gone through the roof in the past year and $500 doesn't go that far. (You're lucky to get in and out for under $50 if you only go in with two kids). It's shame, obviously, because a quarter pounder with cheese with a cheeky cheeseburger on the side isn't banal, it's sublime.