Mariya Rusciano, co-owner of Menomale Pizza in Washington, D.C., found herself at the center of a social media storm after posting a congratulatory message to President-elect Trump on his 2024 victory. While some backlash ensued, Rusciano reported a surprising wave of support, suggesting a growing fatigue with political polarization.

In an interview on "The Faulkner Focus," Rusciano described the initial negative reactions, which included calls for boycotts, accusations of fascism, and even personal insults directed at her and her husband. However, she emphasized that these responses were largely confined to social media and were significantly outnumbered by messages of support from people who appreciated her call for unity.

Rusciano's original X post congratulated Trump on his win and playfully suggested gifting the White House a pizza oven. This sparked outrage among some D.C. residents, where the majority voted for Vice President Kamala Harris. Some users questioned her business acumen, while others threatened boycotts or resorted to personal attacks.

Rusciano defended her actions by pointing out that political discussions are commonplace among D.C. restaurants. She cited an example of another establishment celebrating a potential Harris victory, highlighting that her post was not an isolated incident. She admitted to hoping for some publicity but was surprised by the viral nature of the post.

Rusciano clarified that she would have extended similar congratulations to Harris had she won, emphasizing that her intention was not to be divisive. She also confirmed that her business operations have not been significantly affected by the online controversy.

Rusciano's experience underscores the complex political landscape of the nation's capital and perhaps a broader desire for more respectful political discourse. While some reacted negatively, the overwhelming support she received indicates a potential shift towards bridging divides and embracing common ground.