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Flags, Buttons, and Food: Trump Supporters Line up Hours Early

Claire Kidwell
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KSMU
Josh Wagner shows his support for President Trump

A line of rally-goers formed outside JQH Arena at Missouri State University as early as 7:00 Friday morning in preparation for the rally featuring President Donald Trump.  The president is scheduled to be in Springfield for a 6:30 campaign event for US Senate candidate, Josh Hawley.

Many were there to just see the president. Some said their opinion of Trump has only grown stronger after his first 18 months in office. One of those supporters was Korean War Veteran John White.

Credit Claire Kidwell / KSMU
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KSMU
John White came out at 7:30 am to get a good spot in line for the rally.

“He’s the best president we’ve ever had. He really is. He’s a business man, and that’s what we need to run this country,” White said.

Those waiting hours ahead of the rally are sporting Trump-themed t-shirts and hats. A few people hold Trump flags, and others are treating it like a tailgate party.

Josh Wagner said that he still supports Trump because he’s a “promise keeper.”

“He’s done what he said he was going to do in his last campaign,“ Wagner said.

Vendors set up tents and booths near the arena to sell an assortment of Trump merchandise.

Hawley is running against incumbent US Senator Claire McCaskill, a Democrat.