TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – There was more than just the usual fanfare as JD Vance, Republican vice-presidential nominee, took the stage at Traverse City’s Northwestern Michigan Fairgrounds on Wednesday night.
With less than six weeks to go until Election Day and absentee ballots being mailed out in the state today, the Rosa Covered Arena was bursting at the seams, with a standing-room-only crowd inside and even more folks gathered outside. Amid the massive turnout, security was clearly a top priority from the moment attendees arrived. A robust, multi-layered security force, ranging from local and state police to federal agencies, blanketed the venue, ensuring a safe experience for the vice-presidential hopeful and his supporters.
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The rally came on the heels of increased security concerns for high-profile candidates, particularly after recent assassination attempts against former President Donald J. Trump. For those in attendance, the peace of mind provided by this security presence was palpable, with many expressing gratitude for the extensive measures in place. “Thank you” was heard over and over again as Trump-Vance fans passed by police officers and other security in the area.
A united front: local, state, and federal forces in action.
The event showcased a seamless coordination of security efforts. The Secret Service, Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office, Michigan State Police, Traverse City Police, the military and others worked in tandem with tactical units and specialized vehicles. Snipers were also seen – and photographed by the Detroit News.
Michigan News Source also ran into law enforcement officers who traveled from as far away as Lansing and St. Ignace to bolster security. The choice of the venue itself – the Rosa Covered Arena – provided tighter control and protection, unlike the more exposed grandstands at the fairgrounds which was dismissed as a possible rally site.
Blocking the line of sight and tactical moves protected Vance.
Barriers surrounding the Rosa Arena including specialized transport equipment and a box truck, created additional layers of security. There was also a large flag in the corner of the inside of the building – not something that would stop a bullet, but the patriotic backdrop served as a visual obstruction, covering any line of sight to Vance in that area. At the same time, a plethora of Secret Service agents surrounded the stage while Vance was speaking.
MAGA mania and overflowing crowds.
The crowd, donning MAGA hats and waving signs, appreciated the heightened level of security. The arena was packed with Trump-Vance fans in chairs, risers and standing up filling the room.
It was an overflow crowd with about as many fans standing outside, only they were closer to the wafting smell of smoked sausage, Philly steak sandwiches and the coveted chicken bacon ranch nachos from fair favorite food truck, Tacos-N-More.
Prayers and patriotism.
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With the venue locked down, the standard Trump rally music was played including “Eye of the Tiger” and “YMCA.” As the music and singing died down, the rally kicked off with Curt Coffield, Lead Pastor at North Life Church in Gaylord, Michigan, offering a prayer that God would turn His face and attention to those gathered. Next up was a veteran who led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a powerful rendition of the national anthem.
Next up, two Michigan business owners shared how their businesses thrived under Trump but are now struggling under Biden and Harris. One lamented how he’s putting in more hours while making less money. GOP Chair Pete Hoekstra also took the stage before Vance, sharing stories of people he has met across the state who stand behind Trump, including restaurant workers excited about Trump’s proposal to eliminate taxes on tips.
Politicos in the house.
Amongst the crowd were local and state politicians including Republicans State Senator John Damoose and Lisa Trombley, Candidate for Michigan State Representative, 103rd District, who is running against incumbent Democrat Betsy Coffia. Republican Jason Allen was also seen at the event. Allen is a Traverse City resident and former Michigan state senator. He currently serves as a Michigan Policy Advisor at the Center for Election Integrity under the America First Policy Institute.
What Vance said.
With the warm-up acts in the past, Vance took the stage to thunderous applause and his walk-on song “America First” by country music legend, Merle Haggard. The song’s lyrics say “Why don’t we liberate these United States/ We’re the ones need it the worst/ Let the rest of the world help us for a change/ And let’s rebuild America first” – quite fitting for the Trump-Vance presidential campaign.
Aiming to connect with Michigan voters, Vance emphasized Trump’s economic plans, focusing on energy independence and revitalizing Michigan’s auto industry. He stressed that Trump’s administration is not against electric vehicles but opposes forcing Americans into specific vehicle choices through regulations. He linked rising energy costs to higher consumer prices, criticizing the Biden-Harris administration’s energy policies. During his speech, Vance also highlighted Trump’s environmental achievements, including the Great American Outdoors Act and Great Lakes restoration funding. He also encouraged early voting and “banking” votes so that Michigan voters can achieve a Trump victory.
Michigan News Source asks Senator Vance a question.
Because Vance has a habit of taking questions from local reporters, Michigan News Source was able to ask a question: “What are you doing to prepare for the upcoming difficult debate against your opponent?”
The question was met with a smile from Vance and laughter from the crowd as they don’t see a debate against Harris’s Vice Presidential pick, Tim Walz, as something to worry about.
Vance responded by saying he sees the debate as chance to prove that the Trump-Vance team has a solid record and real plans to benefit Americans, unlike Harris and Walz. His goal is to treat voters with respect, focus on how their policies can improve lives, and highlight the failures of the current administration. Despite concerns about potential moderator bias, he’s prepared to show how Trump’s policies will lead to prosperity, peace, and stronger border security – believing that’s the path to victory. To that end, Vance said, “So we’re studying up as much as we can on the issues that matter to the American people.”
Protecting the candidates: an ongoing concern.
With recent political violence dominating headlines, including threats against major candidates, legislation was unanimously passed by both the House and Senate that extends Secret Service protections for presidential and vice-presidential candidates. The bills, designed to provide the same level of protection currently afforded to sitting presidents, highlight the increased risks candidates face during this election cycle. The legislation is now headed to President Biden for his signature.
The Michigan tour.
Trump will be at back-to-back events in Michigan on Friday – in Walker where he’ll discuss the economy and inflation – and then at Macomb Community College in Warren where he’ll discuss the auto industry. Harris’s VP pick, Democratic Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, will be at the Michigan-Minnesota football game in Ann Arbor on Saturday which is being described as a “campaign” stop. Both the Trump and Harris campaigns have made multiple trips to Michigan over this election cycle, showing how important the state is to their electoral victory.
Gratitude for security, a sign of the times.
As attendees funneled out of the fairgrounds for last night’s rally, police from multiple agencies ensured smooth traffic flow and safe exits and along with the Trump campaign, urged attendees to drive carefully and make it home safely.
The extensive presence of law enforcement throughout the event allowed Vance’s supporters to focus on discussing important issues. And although it was a night of strong political messaging, it was also a reminder of the ever-present need for safety in modern politics. Traverse City, usually known for its laid- back, tourist-friendly atmosphere, was transformed into a fortress of protection for JD Vance – a sign of the times we live in.
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