Romney in Land O’ Lakes: What You’re Saying

Ever since Gov. Mitt Romney’s campaign announced he’d visit Land O’ Lakes, the town has been on fire with conversation.

Supporters are delighted. Opponents are planning protests. Some worry about the traffic the Oct. 27 visit to Land O’ Lakes High School will cause. Others think those on the campaign trail don’t belong on a public school campus.

Here are just some of the things area residents and Pasco leaders have had to say about the impending visit:

"I was excited to see that he was going to visit Land O' Lakes because I would get another chance to see him up close and personal,” said Mary Guenette of Land O’ Lakes. “We met him and interviewed with him four years ago when he was on the campaign trail against McCain. So, I wanted to make sure we acted fast to get the tickets. He is definitely getting my vote and wanted to show my support."

“As someone who supported Governor Romney in 2008 and now in 2012 and as a native Laker, I couldn't be happier to have my hometown host the next President of the United States,” said Pasco Republican State Committeewoman Elect Sandy Graves.

“Getting Romney elected is a must,” said Pasco County Commissioner Pat Mulieri. “Pasco's people need jobs. I work closely with many who are looking for work or are one pay check away from disaster. We need to support our business community. We need a business man to boost the economy.”

Not everyone, however, is thrilled with the upcoming visit.

The United School Employees of Pasco are planning to protest Saturday’s visit.

The union wants to raise awareness about the plight of public schools, said Kenny Blankenship, the group's vice president.

"The biggest thing is we want to get our message out there that our legislative officials need to make our schools a priority," Blankenship said Friday morning. "Our funding is less per student than it was in 2007. They just need to fund public schools appropriately."

Some are even questioning the motives for coming to Land O’ Lakes.

“I've often wondered about these visits to small towns.,” said Chuck Ray, a Land O’ Lakes Patch Facebook fan. “What is the point? Everyone attending is already voting for him. Is it to raise money for his campaign?”

What do you think about Land O' Lakes being selected for the visit? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

See Also:

Romney Rally: What You Need to Know