On Saturday, former President Donald Trump was greeted by thousands of Arizona conservatives, who filled the 5,000 person-capacity Arizona Federal Theater in Phoenix for the Turning Point Action “Rally To Protect Our Elections.” Thousands more gathered outside to show their support.
Trump was in full form, urging the audience to keep fighting for their country, while taking on his opponents and enemies. For those who arrived early in the morning to ensure good seats, the wait until the middle of the afternoon to see their President in person was 100% worth it. “We got here extra early just to make sure we got in and when we saw how long the line was behind us, we were glad we did.” said one couple who had come down from Prescott for the event.
Attendees also got to hear from candidates for the U.S. Senate, Governor, and Secretary of State. Among those who spoke, former Congressman Matt Salmon’s campaign put on an impressive show of support among attendees, while he and former news anchor Kari Lake both received loud ovations from the audience.
I’m blown away by the overwhelming support from Team Salmon heading into today’s rally! @TurningPointACT @TrumpStudents pic.twitter.com/dDla3G4s62
— Matt Salmon (@MattSalmonAZ) July 24, 2021
I’m blown away by the overwhelming support from Team Salmon heading into today’s rally! @TurningPointACT @TrumpStudents pic.twitter.com/dDla3G4s62
— Matt Salmon (@MattSalmonAZ) July 24, 2021
Among Senate candidates, the audience seemed to favor the remarks from political newcomer Blake Masters, who clearly connected with the mostly young crowd.
It was incredible 2016 energy at the Turning Point rally today. President Trump, in top form, told thousands of patriots that we are Making America Great Again, Again 🇺🇸🤠 pic.twitter.com/5FPxzU21c4
— Blake Masters (@bgmasters) July 25, 2021
The most shocking incident of the day involved State Senator Michelle Ugenti-Rita, who spoke as a candidate for Secretary of State. Ugenti-Rita was booed off the stage by the audience that was clearly still upset at her for killing several election integrity bills that had been introduced by fellow GOP Senator Kelly Townsend, and for voting against a bill to rein in the near-dictatorial powers wielded by Governor Ducey during and after the pandemic.
Also notable were those candidates who did not attend, most of whom claimed prior commitments, including gubernatorial candidate Karrin Taylor Robson and Senate candidate Mark Brnovich.
Arizona, as home to the state Senate’s audit of the Maricopa County 2020 election, has become the focus of those who believe that fraud was the cause of Trump’s loss, earning in extra attention from both Trump himself and the national media that is intent on defending the 2020 results.
Watch President Trump’s speech below: