President Donald Trump held his latest campaign-style rally in Phoenix, Arizona on Tuesday, and while his detractors had vowed to be out in force protesting the president’s appearance, there was at least one pro-Trump group that showed up in a big way to offer protection, prayers, support for attendees.
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In a Facebook post on Monday, Bikers for Trump founder Chris Cox issued a “call to action” urging members for “show some force” and “come together for our President.”
“We need these responsible, like-minded bikers for Trump and patriots for Trump to come forward to show the world how responsible patriots are acting,” Cox said in a video message.
With a goal to “keep the peace” amidst any sort of violence or tension, Bikers for Trump teamed up with local organizations to escort rally goers and families to the Phoenix Convention Center. Through social media, organizers made it clear that maintaining “integrity” and “American values” were of utmost importance given the potentially volatile nature of the event.
Posted by Bikers for Trump 2020 on Tuesday, August 22, 2017
“[P]lease be mindful of our policy of integrity,” Steven Emery wrote on Facebook. “We do not incite or instigate violence, disrespect other groups or discriminate against others ever. Our support of President Trump and American values should always be reflected in our actions and conduct.”
“Please be mindful of potential protesters and stay aware at all times,” he continued. “Surround yourself with other groups of patriots if possible, and be safe.”
On Twitter, participants posted videos and photos of the bikers as they prepared for the event. In one video, a group can be heard praying for “protection” and “calm,” as they ask that “everybody would have a good day and go home to their families.”
THIS is WHO we are!
God Fearing good old fashioned Patriots!#BikersForTrump say a prayer before #PhoenixRally pic.twitter.com/iwK0Ih15R8
— ??PATRIOT 24/7?? (@TrumpTrain45Pac) August 23, 2017
Rally attendees, meanwhile, were thankful for their presence.
?Thank you law enforcement & Bikers 4 Trump?
Finally saw protesters about 1/4 mile long, but police have them under control pic.twitter.com/DQJaINCmmo
— Agent Renee ?? (@ReneeCarrollPhx) August 23, 2017
#BikersForTrump say a prayer before #PhoenixRally pic.twitter.com/XSkzbwzGik
— Josh Caplan (@joshdcaplan) August 22, 2017
(H/T: Bizpac Review)