U.S. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump unexpectedly called off a campaign rally in North Carolina on Saturday due to an approaching storm.
Speaking to disappointed supporters via phone from his private jet, Trump expressed regret and emphasized the importance of everyone’s safety amid the threat of lightning.
The rally, scheduled to take place at an airport in Wilmington, attracted thousands of attendees who had braved hot and humid conditions.
Trump, audibly saddened by the turn of events, assured his supporters that he would return to the battleground state soon, urging them to understand the necessity of the cancellation.
The cancellation came amidst the backdrop of Trump’s ongoing criminal trial in New York, where proceedings were set to enter the phase of opening statements following the completion of jury selection.
Although facing legal challenges in several states, the New York trial stands out as the only one expected to proceed to trial this year.
Both Trump and his Democratic opponent, President Joe Biden, have been actively vying for victory in North Carolina, a significant swing state pivotal to the outcome of the November election.
Trump narrowly secured the state in the 2020 election against Biden. With both campaigns intensifying their efforts to win over North Carolina voters, the cancellation of the rally due to safety concerns underscores the significance of the state in the upcoming election.
