When news hit Sioux Falls that President Donald Trump was coming to town, people on both sides of the political spectrum were not afraid to share their reactions. Some were ecstatic and longed for an invite to the event, while others were less than thrilled. Despite the different beliefs, just the mere fact that the president decided to visit Sioux Falls is astonishing.

Many would not expect a president to travel to South Dakota, especially to endorse a gubernatorial candidate. For those fortunate enough to attend the fundraising event, it was an experience they are not likely to forget. Meeting a sitting president and listening to him in person is something that not many people are lucky enough to get to do.

“It was definitely one of the best experiences of my life because he talked about advances that we are making,” said sophomore Abbie DeKramer. “Some of them I may not agree with, but it was still really cool.”

When President Trump made the stop, South Dakotans had the opportunity to raise concerns about current issues. Both supporters and protesters had the opportunity to convey their beliefs not only to the community, but to the president as well.

Supporters of the president had the opportunity to hear his stance on important issues and talk to fellow supporters as well. It brought forth a chance to listen to President Trump’s priorities and stances firsthand, all while being surrounded by a community of fellow supporters.

For protesters, just because they did not go inside did not mean their voices were not heard. When they stood on street corners and outside of the convention center, Trump’s motorcade drove past and saw that not everyone was there to support him. This gave protesters the chance to stand up for their beliefs on a larger level than just throughout the community.

Regardless of political beliefs, President Trump’s visit to Sioux Falls impacted the community. For a president to travel to a state with only three seats in Congress to support a gubernatorial race is almost unheard of, especially in smaller states like South Dakota.

Instead of allowing opinions to cloud the perception of the event, think about the impact and the meaning the visit had for South Dakota. It is bringing attention to not only our state, but to those who represent it and showing that small states, their governments and the people living there do matter.