Starbucks hopes free coffee will end government shutdown

SEATTLE — Starbucks is pushing lawmakers in Washington, D.C. to end the government shutdown with an offer of free coffee.

Wednesday through the end of the week, the company is offering a free, tall brewed coffee to anyone who buys someone else a drink at Starbucks.

CEO Howard Schultz said in a letter the offer is "a different yet authentic way Starbucks can help our fellow citizens to come together by supporting one another during a particularly challenging time,” and it’s “a way to help  support and connect with one another, even as we wait for our elected officials to do the same for our country."

Schultz added he hopes the move will inspire Congress to reach a shutdown solution soon.

A retail analyst says the offer won't likely do much to change attitudes in Washington, but could make for great marketing.

KIRO