Kellye Johns
May 27, 2024 - 05:10

Crowd welcomes Donald Trump at NASCAR race Charlotte Motor Speedway

Donald Trump joins NASCAR fans at Coca-Cola 600, meets driver Austin Dillon, and shows support for police and military families.

As the anticipation built for the start of the Coca-Cola 600, NASCAR drivers and over 80,000 fans were gearing up for an exciting race. Amidst the buzz and excitement, Donald Trump added to the thrill as he made a special appearance before the big event.

The Republican presidential candidate took the time to meet with Austin Dillon, the driver of the No. 3 car for Richard Childress Racing. The crowd of fans and potential voters erupted in cheers and admiration for Trump, eagerly snapping photos on their cell phones. As he made his way towards Dillon's pit box, the chants of "USA" echoed through the air multiple times.

This historic visit marked the first time a sitting or former president has attended a race at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. It also underscored the significance of North Carolina in the upcoming 2024 election, as Trump continues his campaign to reclaim the White House.

North Carolina holds a pivotal role as a swing state in the election, and NASCAR's fanbase has long been associated with conservative leanings. Trump's arrival on Sunday evening was met with excitement, as his Trump Force One flew over the racetrack before landing at the Charlotte Douglas International Airport.

Prior to his appearance at the track, Trump took the time to meet with Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officer Christopher Tolley, one of the four officers injured in a tragic shooting in east Charlotte on April 29. He also spent time with the family of CMPD officer Joshua Eyer, one of the four officers who lost their lives during the incident.

Additionally, Trump met with Gold Star families who had lost loved ones while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, honoring their sacrifice and offering his support.

The Coca-Cola 600 is among NASCAR's most prestigious races, alongside events such as the Daytona 500, the Southern 500 at Darlington, and the Brickyard 400 in Indianapolis. Trump's presence at the race added an extra layer of excitement and significance to an already thrilling event.