GRAND RAPIDS, Mich — People lined up hours, or even days, early at the Van Andel Arena in downtown Grand Rapids for a chance to see Former President Donald J. Trump and his new running mate, Ohio Senator JD Vance.
“We’ll be waiting for hours so we packed our snacks, we're here, we really want to see Trump and Vance,” said Shelby native Kathleen Smilie.
Exactly one week since the assassination attempt against the former president in Pennsylvania, supporters said they're excited to see him.
“I’ve always wanted to see him ever since I was a kid. I'm super excited that I’ll get to see the former president, that's exciting and I think just seeing them walk out, especially after getting shot, that just shows his heart,” said Grand Rapids native Chris Villaire.
Some said they believe Trump stands an even better chance of winning the race to the White House in November since the assassination attempt.
“I think it makes him a shoo-in now, I really do,” said Grandville native Randy Ritsema. "I think that he's going to be the president, that's my opinion but I think it's a wrap, I don't think Biden stands a chance.”
The Grand Rapids Police Department and the U.S. Secret Service are working closely together and have already closed several roads around the arena and barricaded the vicinity.
Some supporters have traveled from as far as New Jersey for the event.
“I came this far from New Jersey because in 2016 Donald Trump promised that he had our back and he said he would take care of the working men and women of America and he kept his promises so I have his back,” said Edward Young.
Despite the hours-long wait, enthusiastic supporters said it was well worth it, as they're among thousands who traveled near and far to take part in what many are calling a historic moment in America.
“My kids really wanted to come down and we are very grateful to be a part of history, we can't wait to get inside and see Mr. Trump,” Ritsema said.