(Sam Mirejovsky | X) – Many of you have reached out to me about Chef James Trees of Esther’s Kitchen (a restaurant here in the Las Vegas Arts District, among others in town) and his recent comments about Charlie Kirk.
James’ comments about Charlie were wrong and hurtful. When I saw his posts, I immediately reached out to him.
I shared my thoughts and he shared his. Following our conversation, James admitted that his comments were crass and that his opinion of Charlie had changed.
He has since gone on to publicly apologize; thanks to conversations he’s had with others in our community.
So what now?
I will not be boycotting Esther’s Kitchen or any of James Trees’ other ventures.
The reasons why are simple: First, I allow people to make mistakes if they make amends — mostly because I would like the same grace back if/when I ever find myself in the wrong.
It’s a fundamental karmic principle. None of us are perfect, especially when it comes to posting our thoughts on the internet.
Second, James Trees is one of the most spectacular humans I know. He is generous and kind. James also knows that I host the @WhatsRightShow, and even though we profoundly disagree on some big issues, he’s always been respectful and gracious toward me.
Our politics have never gotten in the way of our friendship, or distracted us from our shared goal to make Vegas better.
Third, I think boycotting a local business — one that brings visitors to our City, hires many locals, and actively contributes to the beautification of our Downtown — is unproductive.
If James did not apologize, I’d probably understand choosing to support another local restaurant over his.
However, we must support people as they evolve and strive to become better versions of themselves each day… even when it gets ugly.
Finally, James is someone who left a prosperous career in SoCal, returned to his hometown of Las Vegas, and opened his first restaurant in the Arts District when it was still a wasteland.
It’s difficult to overstate James’ impact on the core of our City. In my book, that’s a lot of credit to draw on.
I will never tell you what to do or what to think, though I’m never shy about where I stand and why. I hope this helps.
This content was originally shared in a post via X on 9/19/2025. The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Nevada News & Views.
