Former President Donald Trump is set to hold a rally at the Choctaw Event Center in Durant next week on Oct. 1, drawing both excitement and criticism as Oklahoma’s governor’s race heats up.

The event is part of Trump’s support for Republican candidate Mike Mazzei, who is running against Democrat Cyndi Munson in the upcoming general election. Doors will open at 2 p.m., with the rally scheduled to start at 6 p.m.

Republican Enthusiasm

Oklahoma Republicans are welcoming Trump’s visit, calling it a boost for Mazzei’s campaign. State Sen. Shane Jett, a Republican from Shawnee, said the event reflects Trump’s popularity in the state. “This is exciting for Oklahomans. We love Trump. He loves us,” Jett said. “All 77 counties went for him.”

Jett also pointed out that Durant is a strategic choice for the rally because of its conservative voter base. “It’s a logical stop,” he added.

Democratic Criticism

Meanwhile, Oklahoma Democrats see Trump’s visit as a sign that Mazzei’s campaign may be struggling. Erin Brewer, Chair of the Oklahoma Democratic Party, said the rally is aimed at energizing voters who already support Mazzei. “They’re going to a place where they probably already have voters, but they’re not going to earn any new ones,” Brewer said.

Brewer further suggested that Trump’s involvement indicates Mazzei needs help to compete against Munson. “It tells me that Mike Mazzei’s in trouble,” she said.

Choctaw Nation’s Response

The Choctaw Nation, which operates the Choctaw Event Center, welcomed Trump’s visit in a social media statement last Friday. The Nation said it looks forward to sharing more about its work in southeast Oklahoma during the event.

However, not everyone is thrilled about the rally. Some folks have taken to social media to criticize Trump’s appearance at the venue, though no specific protests have been announced as of yet.

Impact on Governor’s Race

The rally has also caused a scheduling conflict. An OETA debate between Mazzei and Munson was originally set to air live on the same day as the rally. It will now be recorded earlier and broadcast at a later time, according to reports.

With the election drawing closer, both parties are working hard to sway voters. Trump’s visit could energize Republican supporters, but Democrats believe it underscores the competitiveness of the race. Folks across the state will be watching closely to see how this event impacts the final push for votes.