VALDOSTA – Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump is scheduled to speak this afternoon at Valdosta State University, and the school has issued a safety reminder about increased traffic and reserved an area near the event for protests.
The Trump rally is expected to bring thousands to VSU’s P.E. Complex. The event starts at 6 p.m., and the facility will be open to ticket holders 4 p.m.
Traffic and parking could be an issue during the event.
“Safety is our No. 1 concern on campus. We would like to take this opportunity to remind you to be mindful of the increased automotive and pedestrian traffic in the area as you travel around the university and adjacent neighborhoods,” stated an email released by VSU. “Please drive carefully and look both ways before crossing the street. Parking will be at a premium on Monday afternoon. Students and others not attending the rally may want to leave extra time to get to class or appointments on campus.”
Protests in areas cordoned off by Secret Service are prohibited by federal law (House Resolution 347).
Reames Practice Field next to the tennis courts on Baytree Road has been reserved for faculty, staff, students, retirees, alumni and friends who wish to protest the event.
“The field will be equipped with portable restrooms and food vendors and will be available all day. Those who wish to protest may do so as long as the event remains civil and does not interfere with traffic or other campus operations,” stated the VSU email.
The Trump rally is not a university sponsored event. Donald J. Trump for President Inc. rented the P.E. Complex for the event, but questions remain whether or not VSU Event Services ignored its own policies when approving the rental.
“VSU is committed to the practice of citizenship and to graduating a quality, diverse student population prepared for roles as leaders in a global society. This event affords students, regardless of political affiliation, an opportunity to experience the national dialogue that surrounds the election of an American president every four years,” stated the VSU email.
