WACO (1080 KRLD)- Former President Donald Trump will hold a rally in Waco Saturday, the first of his 2024 presidential campaign. The former president will speak at Waco Regional Airport.
The City of Waco says their police department is working with Secret Service to plan for the event, which could draw more than 10,000 people.
"I think the people here are like a lot of other Texans, just kind of worried about what's happening in our country," says Carey Hobbs, who helps raise money for Republican candidates in Waco. "Our freedoms and rights are eroded."
Hobbs says some Republicans may not support Trump in a primary, but he says regardless of political affiliation, the trip can bring positive national attention to the city after the Branch Davidian stand-off 30 years ago and the shooting at a restaurant in 2015.
"Things have really changed in Waco the past three years because of the Silos and Chip and Joanna Gaines bring nothing but goodwill to Waco," he says.
Chip and Joanna Gaines have drawn attention to Waco through HGTV's Fixer Upper.
Businesses in Waco say they are also ready to welcome crowds regardless of political affiliation.
George's Restaurant has been open in Waco since 1930. Current owner Sammy Citrano says he will serve people whether they come to support Donald Trump or protest his appearance. He says both parties' money spends the same.
"Anytime we have people coming to our city from all over, it's a great thing," Citrano says. "Anytime you mention the name, Waco, we want it to be a positive."
Citrano will be catering the rally for Donald Trump and his staff.
"We've been in contact since Thursday, and they told us 20,000 had already signed up for tickets, so we're expecting a large crowd," he says.
But he says he also welcomes members of both parties.
"We worked for eight years with President Bush. We did Clinton, and we've done other political people here in town," Citrano says.
He says George W. Bush would even have Secret Service pick up wings for him to eat on Air Force One.
"That's a nice thing to say about our catering when you're looking for people to give you a recommendation," he says. "We're very excited. We're only as good as our last meal, so we've got to make sure we do things right."
Parking areas at Waco Regional Airport open at 8 a.m. Saturday. Speakers begin at 2, and Donald Trump is expected to arrive at 5. Details about road closures and how to get to the event area are available here.
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