Supporters of President Trump braved the cold temperatures and camped outside Drake University’s Knapp Center ahead of his "Keep America Great Rally" Thursday night.
Randal Thom of Lakefield, Minnesota told WHO-TV 13 he arrived at the Knapp Center at 4:00 p.m. Tuesday.
“Some people say I’m addicted to the rallies, but the truth is I love our president that much.” Thom said this will be his 61st Trump rally. He likes listening to the president and being reunited with other supporters.
“We have a group now that we call ourselves ‘Trump’s Front Row Joes.’ It started out in Iowa, the core group of 10 Iowans and tonight is going to be our reunion,” Thom says.
Emily Hatigan-Stein from Shoreview, Minnesota tells WHO-TV 13 “I love the president. I love what he is doing for this country. He supports the stuff I believe in. It feels like he is talking to me."
People are coping with the cold temperatures by using space heaters, blankets and tents. “Well I’ve got two blankets on so I’ve got pretty good layers, but I’ve got three more blankets in the van if I need them. I brought five,” says Cathy Pahsetoph of Corydon.
Drake University said its public safety department is working closely with the U.S. Secret Service, Des Moines Police and others to ensure a safe atmosphere for people attending as well as Drake students and staff.
Doors open to the general public 3:00 Thursday afternoon and the rally begins at 7:00 p.m.
(Photo: WHO-TV 13)