John Kasich had a campaign moment of raw emotional energy Thursday in South Carolina, hugging and comforting a student going through hard times who said the Ohio governor had brightened his life.
“Over a year ago, a man who was like my second dad, he killed himself. But then a few months later, my parents got a divorce, and then a few months later, my dad lost his job,” the student, who said he had driven up from the University of Georgia, said into the microphone.
“I was in a pretty dark place, for a long time, I was pretty depressed. But, I found hope, I found it in the Lord, and in my friends, and now I’ve found it in my presidential candidate,” the student said. “I’d really appreciate one of those hugs you’ve been talking about.”
Kasich walked over and wrapped the young man in a hug as the rest of the audience applauded. In video from the event, Kasich appears to whisper to him about religion and faith in God, including “the Lord will give you strength,” and “I promise you.”
Kasich became a committed Christian in his thirties after the death of both his parents in a car accident. He said on the campaign trail earlier this month that Americans “need to be listened to, supported and hugged.”
