Ahead Of RivCo Trump Rally, City Affirms Right To Sell Political Merch

Patch ^ | 10/11/2024 | Kat Schuster, Patch Staff

[granite]

PALM SPRINGS, CA — Palm Springs officials said Thursday that they have gotten several complaints from residents about a vendor selling political merchandise on city sidewalks, but confirmed that the vendor has obtained the business licensing to do so.

"His right to sell political merchandise is protected by the First Amendment and state law, regardless of political viewpoint," the city said. "Like any licensed business, he must adhere to all city regulations. Violations will be addressed accordingly."

The city released its statement on vendors' rights to sell political wares just a few days before Trump was expected to arrive in Coachella for a rare California appearance.

Residents said on Facebook that flags bearing President Donald Trump's name and other merchandise promoting his campaign were being sold by the vendor.

However, the city of Palm Springs could not confirm that with Patch.

"We were not given that information, simply that it was political merchandise," city spokesperson Kitty Alvarado said.

Tensions grew in the desert area this week as Trump's expected appearance drew closer.

Trump is scheduled to hold his rally at 5 p.m. Oct. 12 at Calhoun Ranch, 52995 Calhoun St., in Coachella, where he's expected to paint a bleak picture for Golden State residents about their state, according to the narrative of an Oct. 7 news release from the Trump campaign.

[granite]

Residents recently complained about a vendor selling political goods in Palm Springs, but the city said the vendor was within his right.

[ridesthemiles]

IS THERE EVEN ONE PERSON LEFT THERE WHO IS NOT GAY?????

[granite]

I don’t know. I’m 20 miles away and used to work there 20 years ago. It was great, especially during Spring Break time. Quit going when they got woke and went broke.

[kickstart]

Palm Beach Florida probably wouldn't give you a license.

[falcon99]

Typical democrats complain because they must always censor or stop anything they disagree with.

[Gay State Conservative]

If DJT’s doing rallies in California and New York maybe he can do one in Massachusetts. He could do it on the spot on Martha’s Vineyard where the 51 “migrants” were rounded up and carted off.

[markman46]

Nope all Gay city and demonrat

[blueplum]

I’m very upset about this rally. It’s within easy driving distance, it’s the first time in what, 8 years, since Trump was last in my area, but I’m still on oxygen from almost dying of pneumonia 3 years ago and I don’t have the portable battery power to last the 4 or so hours the rally will take up. Such a bummer! if you’ve ever been to a rally, y’all know TV broadcast just isn’t the same. So if a FReeper is lucky enough to attend, please think about the electric-outlet dependent FReepers and take pictures and post them!!! I love you so long! :)