Saturday, October 29, 2016

It's Trump or the political elite this cycle, says Ben Carson on game day





Dr. Ben Carson tailgates before the rivalry University of Michigan, Michigan State University game on Oct. 29, 2016. He was in Michigan, his home state, to support Republican nominee Donald Trump.


Emily Lawler | elawler@mlive.com


By Emily Lawler | elawler@mlive.com

on October 29, 2016 at 12:31 PM, updated October 29, 2016 at 2:14 PM




EAST LANSING, MI – Former presidential contender Dr. Ben Carson said at a tailgate on Saturday that Michiganders should support Republican nominee Donald Trump, who represents the people against political elite and their "minions in the media."

"I think a lot of people are starting to recognize that this election is not about Democrats and Republicans. This is about the political ruling class and their minions in the media and the people," Carson said at an appearance to support Trump during the football game between Michigan State University and the University of Michigan.

"And as more people realize that, I think you're going to see them abandoning the party loyalty and start thinking about their children in America," Carson added.

And in Michigan, where Trump is trailing Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton in the polls, Carson gave Trump good chances for winning Michigan on Nov. 8.

"I think they're actually pretty good. Because having grown up here one thing I know about Michigan is that there are a lot of people here with common sense," Carson said.

He said Trump had exactly the right solutions for Michigan's manufacturing sector, while Clinton's plan would lead to the continued decline of Michigan's manufacturing sector.

But U.S. Rep. Brenda Lawrence, D-Southfield, said in a statement that Clinton would be better for Michiganders.

"Only one candidate has fought for children and families throughout her entire career: Hillary Clinton," Lawrence said. "...Hillary has always stood up for those who need a champion, and I know that she has the experience necessary to lead our nation and bring us together."

As Michigan and Michigan State fans trailed into the game, they were surprised to see Carson among the tailgaters.

"I'm here for a great football game but to see him just joining in with an everyday crowd, that's amazing," said David Skjaerlund of Owosso.

He's supporting Trump in the presidential election. So is Duke Kelly, of Howell, but Carson was his first choice.

"I wish I could vote for him in two weeks," said Kelly.

Carson toured several tailgates, getting a warm reception from those in attendance.

A graduate of the University of Michigan's medical school, Carson was diplomatic about the state's biggest rivalry.

"I grew up in Michigan so have known about this rivalry for a really long time and have lots of friends who went to both places. And relatives, so I can't be too partisan," Carson said.




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