Trump is expected to speak at a rally in South Dakota Friday, near Mount Rushmore. It will be the second time as a presidential candidate he makes a stop in the state.
It was a pivotal moment in Donald Trump’s presidency, when on the eve of Independence Day in 2020, he flouted social distancing guidelines aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19 and instead delivered a speech, attended by thousands, criticizing social justice protests at the foot of Mount Rushmore.
While South Dakota rarely attracts campaign stops by presidential candidates, Trump is expected to return to the state as a candidate once again on Friday.
The GOP presidential front-runner is set to speak at a rally in Rapid City, South Dakota. The appearance will mark one of his first since pleading not guilty to charges stemming from his unsuccessful attempt to overturn his 2020 election loss in Georgia.
The event, which is being held just minutes away from Mount Rushmore, is being billed as a fundraiser for the state Republican Party and the Trump campaign is not listed as a recipient in the fundraising efforts.
«They’re supporting us,» said John Wiik, chairperson of the South Dakota GOP. «They’re doing this out of the kindness of their hearts.»
But Trump may stand to benefit from who is also set to attend the fundraiser: South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, a longtime supporter.A loyal ally
With Former Vice President Mike Pence challenging Trump for the Republican presidential nomination, Noem, South Dakota’s first female governor, could be considered for Trump’s list of potential running mates.
