I Attended a Trump Rally

Here's what I learned and saw (and didn't see)

After hearing about the spectacle of these events, I decided to attend a Trump rally.

Photo by BP Miller on Unsplash

Amidst a crowd of approximately 5,000 predominantly white attendees, I observed the following:

• A busy marketplace with 30-40 vendors selling MAGA merchandise, ranging from hats and T-shirts adorned with simple messages like "Make America Great Again" to more aggressive slogans advocating victory in the election at any cost, even suggesting violence.

• Intertwining themes of God, Guns, and Trump were prominently displayed and sold as merchandise.

• The concept of being "anti-woke" appeared unclear. Many interpretations leaned towards opposition to LGBTQ rights.

• Individuals of color were primarily attending via roles like merchandise vendors and security personnel.

• Ten Proud Boys tried to attend the rally donning their distinctive attire. They were turned away at the gate.

• Only one speaker made an appeal for voter mobilization, urging attendees to contact their acquaintances and ensure they vote.

• There was active petitioning for the inclusion of Cornel West on the November ballot in my state (North Carolina).

What was conspicuously missing:

• Voter registration information.

• Much info about other Republican candidates running for down-ballot offices.

• President Trump himself; his absence was attributed to adverse weather conditions.

• A focus on Democracy and Democratic values

Here’s what I learned: The attendees don’t need to vote this November because God, guns and Trump will handle the election.


Post submitted by Maggie Smith, a volunteer with The Union.

Note: The views and opinions expressed by volunteer contributors are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the positions of The Union, a single-issue organization that welcomes all and is dedicated to protecting democracy.

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