By Kris Leonhardt

MOSINEE – Area residents traveled to Mosinee to show their support, or get a close-up look at President Donald Trump, as the commander-in-chief encouraged local voters to cast their ballots for Wisconsin Republican candidates.

Senator Patrick Testin makes his way through the crowd during the Oct. 24 rally. City Times staff photo

Thousands came out to Mosinee’s Central Wisconsin Airport on Oct. 24 to listen to a line-up of speakers that included Governor Scott Walker, House Speaker Ryan Paul, Congressman Sean Duffy, Kevin Hermening, state senator candidate Leah Vukmir, as well as the president.

In a speech that lasted a little over an hour, President Trump spoke on immigration, the Affordable Care Act, taxes, tariffs, and encouraged votes for Walker and Vukmir.

Many local state representatives were also on hand, such as: John Spiros, Jerry Petrowski, Patrick Testin, and Pat Snyder.

While thousands made it inside the airport hanger, others in the overflow crowd were left to watch from the outside on a jumbotron, but were able to see Air Force One in full view.

“I was so excited to be able to go to the rally,” said Holly Fluno of Wisconsin Rapids. “There were a lot more people there than I had anticipated. We figured between 10-12,000. We got there about 2:30 p.m.; doors opened at 3:30 p.m. We got into the building at 5:30 p.m.”

“I went; got there late,” said John Butler of Wisconsin Rapids. “Had tickets, but no chance to get in. Thousands inside and outside… Trump is treated like a rock star.”

The atmosphere at the rally was likened to a rock concert by many attending.

Trump is the first sitting president to visit central Wisconsin in 14 years. George W. Bush was the last to visit the Wausau area in 2004.