Some central New York Republican officials say there’s a little more excitement at their annual clambake this year, because of presumptive GOP presidential hopeful Donald Trump.
Every year Republicans from central New York gather at Hinerwadels Grove in North Syracuse to eat clams and talk politics. And presumptive GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump was at the center of many conversations.
Onondaga County GOP Chair Tom Dadey says he’s seen more excitement locally about Trump than any other Republican candidate in years.
“Our attendance at this event is up because of Donald Trump," said Dadey.
And many of these Trump supporters are new to organized politics, like Michelle Delong of Eastwood.
"I’ve been very excited, I’ve never voted for someone I’ve been so proud of, that really cares about our country, somebody that’s going to do the job right, 100 percent,” said Delong.
Dadey, who’s a co-chair of Trump’s New York campaign, expects even more Republicans to coalesce around Trump now that he has the endorsement of the top Republican in the House of Representatives.
"I think it’s the beginning of other republicans in Congress getting on board and supporting Donald Trump. Their leader, Paul Ryan, the speaker of the House, has decided to support Donald Trump, and now I think you’ll see other folks follow his lead and get on board,” said Dadey.
One congressional Republican who hasn’t gotten on board, is Rep. John Katko (R-Camillus). In a written statement on the matter last month, Katko said, any candidate has to earn his vote, and he was concerned with some of the comments Trump has made and with the general tone he’s taken. Katko wouldn’t comment on the news of Ryan’s endorsement at the Republican gathering yesterday.