Originally Posted: June 14, 2016
Two North Texas Cities have refused to play host to Presidential Candidate Donald Trump for a campaign rally. Both Grand Prairie and Irving have rejected Trumps’s visit to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex on Thursday.
“It’s very unusual that the Republican candidate for president in this deep red state would be having trouble finding a venue for his rallies,” said SMU Political science professor Cal Jillson.
According to CBSdfw, Trump originally requested for the rally to be held at the Verizon Theater in Grand Prairie. The City of Grand Prairie denied that request and blamed traffic, other events in the area, along with an inadequate police force to provide security.
Trump rallies typically involve violence and riots; however, Dallas activists insist they’ll be ‘peaceful’.
“There are various groups that are very upset on policy terms with him and they’re going to counter-demonstrate and that obviously raises security concerns particularly in the wake of Orlando,” said Cal Jillson, SMU Political Science Professor.
Last September, Trump held a rally at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, drawing a crowd of more than 20,000 people. AAC event coordinator – Dave Brown says there are no plans to host Trump again this time.
Irving also rejected the Trump campaign’s request for the Irving Convention Center, releasing the following statement:
“In consultation with the Irving Police Department, the city of Irving decided it was not given sufficient time – given a 48 hour notice – to gather the resources necessary to ensure the safety and security of those attending such a large-scale, high-profile event.”
The Dallas Police Department has not commented on any preparations for the convention, wherever it may be held, this Thursday night. READ MORE