Law enforcement officials told some media outlets that around 15,000 people had gathered by 11am, two hours before Mr Trump’s remarks. But none drew a crowd like Mr Trump, whose appearance effectively shuttered Pickens’ quintessential southern downtown. Contrasted with his 2016 and 2020 campaigns, which drew thousands to rallies in states across the country, Mr Trump’s 2024 effort has been markedly different. This was only Mr Trump’s second large rally of the 2024 campaign. In a broad Republican field that has continued to grow, Mr Trump’s campaign has pointed to polls showing him with a considerable lead over his rivals, despite a campaign schedule that is far less robust than many of his rivals.

Source: The Star July 02, 2023 10:02 UTC