On This Day – February 2nd

Trump Rally in Milford, NH – February 2, 2016

Every four years I get to witness a parade of Presidential Candidates as they canvas the State of New Hampshire. 2016 was a busy year with lots of candidates, including Donald Trump. I decided to attend his rally to take photos and see if he was odious in person as he was on television. He was. Before I could get inside, I had stand outside a sports arena in the cold.

Queuing up

Magnetometers

I’ve attended many Presidential Primary event over the years living in New Hampshire. I’ve seen John McCain, Obama, Romney, Jeb Bush, Hillary Clinton, Jon Huntsman, Gary Johnson, John Kasich, Chris Christie, Bill Richardson, Kamala Harris and Joe Biden. There was only one time I was require to go through a magnetometer security screening and this was the event. Ironic for a guy who said “Take the f*cking mags away. Let my people in.” on January 6th.

Overflow

I arrived too late, the main area was full. They set up an overflow area with a screen. I took the opportunity to snap some photos.

I wonder if these folks were just curious, or true believers

Press not welcome

I witnessed a bit of drama in the overflow area. A journalist Gustau Alegret attempted to enter the main arena and was confronted by a staff member. The staff member explained that this was private affair and he was not welcome. The police were called and he was escorted out of the building. Later I had the opportunity to speak with him outside as well as a Dutch TV camera crew who were also expelled. Friendly venue.

The Crowd Thins Out

After a while, Trump began to repeat his themes. Some of the crowd became bored and left. I had the opportunity to enter the main arena. There was no seating, it was hot and stuffy and reminiscent of a locker room which was apt considering it is a sports arena. I took a few photos before leaving. I wanted to beat the rush to the shuttle buses.

No Red Hats

Red hats weren’t a thing yet. I wonder how many of these folks were supporters and how many were just curiosity seekers.

Looking Back

I’m still in wonderment how this guy ever managed to win the election. Hopefully we’ll not make the same mistake in 2024.