Saundra Kiczenski, left, and Judy Chiodo starting waiting outside of Kellogg Arena a day in advance of President Donald Trump's campaign rally in Battle Creek. (Photo: Elena Durnbaugh)
Kiczenski said the energy in the room at the rallies keeps her coming back.
"I've been to well over 250 concerts, and those aren't super exciting from start to finish because there's always downtime...but here, you're hearing firsthand all the real news of what's happening in the country."
Kiczenski said that she's learned about current events from Trump rallies, including news about the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, the U.S. moving its Israel embassy to Jerusalem, tax reform and the economy.
"If I'm not at the rally, or at least watching it on television, you don't even really know what's happening," she said.
In addition to learning about what's going on in the country, Kiczenski said she liked going to rallies because she was able to meet people from all over the country.
She made a new friend at a Trump rally and they go to events together
Kiczenski and Chiodo met at a Trump rally and became friends.
"We've been to a few events together, not all Donald Trump," Chiodo said. "I like the camaraderie, and I like the energy. It's nice."
Chiodo has attended three presidential rallies.
"He's given me hope for our country," she said. "He's standing up to NATO and making all the countries that are involved in NATO pay their share — cough up some money. I love that... He's like that with a lot of things."
Chiodo was excited that the president was visiting Michigan again.
"I think he loves Michigan," she said. "He comes here a lot...He could get it over, you know, one and done, but instead, he's going to the smaller venue, and I think that's really great."
Chiodo and Kiczenski planned to spend Tuesday night in a tent or in their car. They're prepared with food and extra layers so they can stay warm.
