Donald Trump wooed New Hampshire residents on the eve of Election Day with the announcement of endorsements from two members of the NFL’s New England Patriots.
Returning to the Granite State, where the Republican nominee picked up his first primary win in February, Trump touted the support of quarterback Tom Brady and coach Bill Belichick. They didn’t stump for him in person but Trump surprised the crowd with an announcement.
“He called today,” Trump said, referring to Brady. “And he said, ‘Donald, I support you, you’re my friend and I voted for you.'”
The crowd, packed into the Southern New Hampshire University arena, roared. The billionaire businessman called Brady a “great guy,” and friend, before touting Belichick’s endorsement.
“He wrote me the most beautiful letter and it was only two hours ago, we called back and we said ‘Do you think that Mr. Trump could read that letter to the people of New Hampshire?’ And he said ‘Absolutely, if you’d like, but do me a favor. Don’t read that letter, let me send one that’s a little bit different,'” Trump told the crowd, admitting he was worried Belichick was going to water-down the letter.
But Trump said the second letter, was “much better, stronger.”
“Congratulations on a tremendous campaign,” Trump read Belichick’s words to thousands packed inside the room. “You have dealt with an unbelievable slanted and negative media and have come out beautifully – beautifully. You’ve proved to be the ultimate competitor and fighter. Your leadership is amazing. I have always had tremendous respect for you, but the toughness and perseverance you’ve displayed over the past year is remarkable. Hopefully tomorrow’s elections results will give the opportunity to make America great again. Best wishes for great results tomorrow. Bill.”
The appearance in New Hampshire was Trump’s second-to-last rally of the day. New Hampshire bled blue in the past two presidential elections, but polls over the past week show less than one percentage point of a difference between Trump and Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton. In addition, voters in the state do not take part in early voting, making the lead up to Tuesday critical for candidates to rally as much support as possible.
Trump’s family took the stage and stood behind him for the duration of his speech. He will travel to Michigan late Monday night for a final event before Election Day.
