GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Former President Donald J. Trump and running mate JD Vance are set to make their first public campaign appearance since the assassination attempt on Trump that killed a campaign rally attendee.
The high-profile visit is also the first campaign event since Vance was announced as Trump's running mate. Thousands are expected to be in the vicinity of the large event venue which is surrounded by hotels, restaurants, bars and museums.
During Saturday's political event, the former president is expected to touch on the economy, border policies and taxes among other topics.
Michigan is considered a battleground state in the race for the White House in November.
Earlier this week, Vice President Kamala Harris made a campaign stop in Portage to give remarks about national security and reproductive rights.
WHERE IS IT
Van Andel Arena at 130 Fulton Street W in Grand Rapids.
WHAT TIME
While the program is slated to begin at 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 20, road closures and the logistical timeline are expected to start much earlier.
Doors open at 1 p.m. on Saturday for those who have a general admission ticket to the venue.
HOW TO WATCH
13 ON YOUR SIDE will livestream Trump's remarks.
You can watch on our website, download the 13 ON YOUR SIDE app, or on our streaming app available to download for free on Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, and Apple TV.
ROAD CLOSURES
In preparation for the campaign event, the city is announcing some road closures. The city says that they will be "short-term, rolling road closures before and after the event as needed."
Doors open for the event at Van Andel Arena at 12 p.m. and the event begins at 5 p.m.
Announced Road Closures
- Fulton Street – Market/Monroe Ave to Ionia Ave
- Ottawa Ave – Fulton Street to Oakes Street
- Oakes Street – Ottawa Ave to Ionia Ave
- Weston Street – Ionia Ave to the Van Andel Arena
Downtown Parking During the Event
Grand Rapids Parking Area 2 located behind Van Andel Arena will be closed Saturday, but other public and private parking ramps around the city will remain open.
On-street metered parking will not be available around the arena.
Public Transportation During the Event
The Rapid, DASH and Downtown Area Shuttle will be running, but will have detours.
“The safety and security of everyone in downtown and elsewhere in our city is our top priority,” said Grand Rapids Police Department (GRPD) Chief Eric Winstrom. “We are asking everyone to allow extra time for travel and parking, to cooperate with directions given by law enforcement, and to be patient and courteous.”
Multiple law enforcement agencies will be working with GRPD to provide security in and around the event.