The Great American Pizza Debate: A Slice of Patriotism
Few things are more sacred in America than the love of pizza. In true patriotic fashion, even members of Congress can’t resist weighing in on the ultimate question. Which city has the best pizza? The recent declaration that a Portland pizzeria ranks among the best in the U.S. has reignited a fierce rivalry. Lawmakers from New York, Chicago, and Detroit quickly jumped into the fray. They defended their hometown pies with unwavering pride.
New York’s Dough and Swagger
Rep. Marc Molinaro (R-N.Y.) didn’t mince words when he heard the news about Portland’s pizza honor. “It’s absurd,” said Molinaro, a self-proclaimed pizza “expert” who spent ten years working at a pizzeria. In his view, New York pizza has no rivals. This is due to the unique combination of dough, water, and personality that define it. “Our pizza has personality,” he quipped.
Even Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) shared Molinaro’s sentiment, summing it up simply: “Vociferously disagree.” It seems, for New Yorkers, pizza is more than just food. It’s an art form woven into the very fabric of city life.
Chicago’s Deep-Dish Defense
But head to the Midwest, and it’s a completely different story. Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.) was quick to champion Chicago’s iconic deep-dish pizza, calling it the superior pie. While she respects her “dear friend” Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.), who favors New Haven’s pizza, Schakowsky couldn’t resist poking fun at her friend’s “poor taste” in pizza. “Chicago’s deep-dish reigns supreme,” she said confidently, promising to give DeLauro a real taste of what pizza should be.
Rep. Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.) doubled down, calling Chicago “the pizza capital” and adding that the Windy City offers something for everyone with both deep-dish and tavern-style thin-crust options. “Come try both,” she invited DeLauro.
Detroit’s Square Slice Takes the Stage
Lawmakers from Michigan entered the battle with their own crispy contender: Detroit-style pizza. Known for its square shape, airy crust, and cheesy edges, Detroit’s pan-style pie has quietly built a national reputation. Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) dismissed the competition, saying, “Detroit-style pizza is by far and away the best pizza in the country.” In a playful jab, she called Chicago pizza “basically lasagna.” She declared New York and New Haven pizzas too thin to measure up.
Adding to the pride, Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.) pointed out that Michigan isn’t just about local pies — it’s also home to some of the biggest pizza chains in the nation, including Domino’s and Little Caesars. “We have the biggest appreciation for a variety of pizza styles,” Dingell declared. “No way, Jose, can Connecticut claim that title.”
A Diplomatic Slice from Connecticut and New York
Not everyone wanted to get their hands dirty in the pizza dough, though. Rep. Thomas Suozzi (D-N.Y.) stayed diplomatic, praising both New Haven pizza and DeLauro’s leadership on the Appropriations Committee. Meanwhile, Rep. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.) took a more tactical approach, steering the conversation toward his other culinary passion — bagels. “New York bagels are the best,” said Goldman, who founded the House Bagel Caucus. “I can only focus on one food.”
What’s the Verdict?
So, where does this leave Portland’s celebrated pizzeria? It’s clear that no matter how good it is, claiming the top spot will stir the passions of pizza lovers. This happens across the country. You prefer New York’s foldable slices. Or maybe you enjoy Chicago’s decadent deep-dish. Detroit’s crispy squares be more your style. Perhaps the old-school charm of New Haven’s pies delights you. One thing is certain — Americans take their pizza very seriously.
Perhaps the beauty of the debate is that it will never be settled. After all, the real winner is anyone who gets to enjoy a slice, no matter where it comes from. In a nation where pizza preferences are as diverse as the people, one thing unites us. Every bite is a taste of home.
Source:
- https://youtu.be/o4L2uGof2As?si=-H9ZdNC2MFbA-kID
- https://thehill.com/blogs/in-the-know/4681021-where-is-americas-best-pizza-lawmakers-slice-into-an-old-debate/
- https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/best-pizza-city-us-modernist-authors/index.html
- https://chatgpt.com/
- https://readloud.net/
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