Trump rally participants reflect on event | News, Sports, Vacancies

“We arrived at 6 a.m., we were standing around number 50 in the queue.” said Tim Yon, who attended with his wife. “We had some really good spots, about 30 to 40 feet.”

The rally was attended by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and members of the Penn State wrestling team, as well as student lecturers from the university. Those in attendance said Trump’s speech focused on policy proposals and plans for the future rather than personal attacks on opponents.

“That was everything I hoped to hear” said Sheila Specht, who attended with her son despite a recent back injury. “What he wants to do with the country, all his policies, that’s what I wanted to hear.”

Juanita Byler, chairwoman of the Mifflin County Republican Committee, noted this was her fourth rally against Trump. “It was probably the best rally I’ve ever been to.” she said. “There’s a palpable energy in the room.”

Sent photo
Pictured are scenes from the Donald Trump rally at the Bryce Jordan Center on October 26th.

The economy, border security and public safety emerged as top concerns among participants. “The economy is probably the main issue, for sure. Border. I hear a lot of people complaining that the border is wide open. Crime, the safety of our society.” – said Byler.

While some protesters were expected to march from downtown State College to the event around 2:30 p.m., participants reported minimal disruption. “A couple of protesters, nothing serious.” – Jon said.

Byler, who volunteered at the event, mentioned that there are designated areas for protesters within a certain distance from the rally sites, although she “I didn’t see them at all.”

The first-come, first-served ticketing system meant that early arrival was essential for entry. “Just because you have tickets doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed a seat.” Jon explained.

Some supporters expressed reserved views of the former president. “Trump is not one hundred percent. I’m not 100%. None of us are 100%.” – Jon said. “He’s the best we can choose from.”

Specht emphasized the importance of civic participation regardless of political views. “I think it’s very important for an American, whether you vote for one side or the other, to come out and let your voice be heard.” she said.

The event drew attendees from throughout central Pennsylvania, filling the 15,000-seat arena. Trump’s previous term resonated with supporters like Yohn, who said: “When he was in power, everything was fine in our country.”

Byler reflected on crowd behavior: “I think Trump people are incredibly personal, kind and patient. People have to stand in line for hours at Trump rallies.”

The rally marks Trump’s final campaign stop in Pennsylvania, a state expected to play a significant role in the 2024 presidential election. Both Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris set records during their four years in office, Byler emphasized: “When you lay out the issues, it is very clear what they have been able to achieve in his four years and what has been accomplished under their leadership.”

For many participants, the rally was their first experience of participating in a presidential campaign event. “I’ve never been to a presidential rally other than Trump’s.” – said Byler. “I don’t even know how to compare it to any other presidential rally.”

The event included standard security measures for presidential campaign stops, with volunteers and visitors being screened before entering. Regular ticket holders waited in line as volunteers and staff entered after security cleared the building.

Trump’s appearance at the Bryce Jordan Center preceded his appearance at Madison Square Garden, demonstrating his continued focus on battleground states and major population centers as the campaign season progresses.