THE VILLAGES, Fla. — All eyes will be on The Villages on Friday as President Donald Trump is set to touchdown and speak to residents about policy initiatives.
It’s an appearance that has created a lot of commotion for both Republicans and Democrats.
Some people decided to camp out for the opportunity to see the president and show support, while others are hoping to send a message of disapproval to his visit.
Pamela and Gerry Pierson have been supporters of Trump since he first ran for president and are excited for the Middleton area of The Villages to take political center stage.
“It’s very positive, you know. It’s good to see the energy and see the support that he has here,” Gerry Pierson said.
Trump is expected to discuss several topics, such as eliminating taxes on tips, overtime and social security, while also getting into his plans to lower prescription drugs.
These are all points that hit home for the Piersons.
“All of that matters to us, particularly people who are retired,” said Pamela Pierson.
But that same feeling is not echoed by everyone.
Rochelle Larson with Villagers 4 Democracy and LaRae Donnellan with the Democratic Club of The Villages are part of a collaboration of people working to put together a golf cart rally.
“It’s going to be at one of the roundabouts in The Villages that is about three quarters of a mile away from the school where President Trump is going to be speaking,” said Donnellan. “So, we’re going to be close but still far enough away.”
The two say they have been organizing in opposition to Trump for years, which makes them a minority in this community. They say they feel that his views are not in the best interest of the people here.
“Everything he does is for himself and not the American people and that was not what he was voted in to do,” Larson said.
But folks like the Piersons believe the focus of this visit should be on his policies, which they say are beneficial to all residents.
“Is he a little rough sometimes? Of course. But you know, he means business, and when he says he’s going to do something, he does it,” Pamela Pierson said.
Road closures around The Villages will start early Friday morning.
If you’re not going to the event, the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office recommends you avoid the Middleton area.