ATKINSON — Hundreds of people braved snow, sleet and frigid temperatures to hear former President Donald Trump speak at the Atkinson Country Club on Tuesday night with a week to go until the New Hampshire presidential primary.
Supporters camped out all day for the Republican presidential candidate, undeterred by the elements of the winter snowstorm in their best Trump garb, patriotic colors and even shorts.
They traveled far and near to get to the campaign event on the heels of Trump’s overwhelming win of the Iowa caucus.
Republican candidates were out in force in New Hampshire with one last push ahead of the primary. Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis also held campaign events in the Granite State on Tuesday.
Locals like Tracey Mailhot, of Newton, wrapped themselves in blankets to keep warm only to find an extra layer of cold snow piled on from sitting outside during the storm while snow accumulated on their “Trump” winter beanies.
Betty McGrath, of Atkinson, was prepared to wait as she wanted the chance to see Trump in person.
It was McGrath’s first Trump rally, unlike most in the line. Edward Young ventured from Point Pleasant, New Jersey for the occasion.
This was the 66th Trump rally which Young has attended. He was the fourth person in line.
Those ahead of him arrived at 5:30 a.m., nearly 12 before the event started, Young said donning a jean jacket adorned with numerous buttons with the former president’s face on them.
He braved bad weather and drove 11 hours just to attend the rally.
Trump supporters sat out in lawn chairs, with their “Trump 2024” apparel covered in snow, holding campaign signs and banners.
Others sold merchandise like hats and buttons up and down the line looking to cash in on the rally.
Photographer Tim Jean contributed to this story.