He’s not competing in a primary in the state, but President Donald Trump is planning to make an appearance in South Carolina just before Democrats hold their primary election there.
Trump told reporters on Tuesday on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews that he would hold an event in the state next week, “probably the day before” the state's Feb. 29 primary, and that details were still being worked out. Trump had previously said that he would likely travel to the state but would be working around a scheduled trip to India. State party officials didn't confirm any details for a visit.
Trump has held events in early voting states across the country this year, including Iowa and New Hampshire. He will be in Nevada on Friday, a day ahead of that state's caucuses.
President Donald Trump speaks with reporters as he boards Air Force One as he departs Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2020, at Andrews Air Force Base, Md.(AP PhotoAlex Brandon)
“Look — we have a big voice, and we might as well use it,” Trump said.
Trump won't be appearing on ballots during South Carolina's presidential primary. Last year, state Republican Party officials opted not to hold a GOP presidential primary, citing cost-saving measures.
Support for the president has been high in South Carolina, where both legislative chambers and seven of the state’s nine congressional seats are held by Republicans. Last week, Vice President Mike Pence visited South Carolina for a speech and awards dinner at The Citadel military college. He also appeared at a luncheon, which raised $1.5 million for Trump's reelection bid.
Meg Kinnard can be reached at http://twitter.com/MegKinnardAP
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