Politics & Government

Small Group Turns Out for Tea Party Express Bus Tour

The short rally encouraged people to focus on Election Day and the upcoming Senate races.

The Friday evening—and departed soon after with little fanfare. The tour’s Ohio location had been up in the air until Friday morning, and the short notice led to a small crowd.

About 30 people had gathered in the city’s municipal parking lot by the time the rally began around 5:25 p.m.

Members of the audience mentioned the short notice, and many said they came out because they want change in the government.

Don Lastoria, owner of the , said the country is “really upside down right now.” As a small business owner, taxes are making it difficult for him to keep going. Lastoria said he wants to look at different sides of both parties.

“We definitely need change,” said Katie Lastoria, his wife.

Amy Kremer, chair of the Tea Party Express, addressed the group first and apologized for the confusion. She asked the audience to not get discouraged, repeating that the Tea Party is “not dead.” The Tea Party shouldn’t be judged by the number of people at rallies, Kremer said.

“Judge us by what happens on Election Day,” she said.

The Tea Party Express’ “Restoring the American Dream” bus tour is focused on the upcoming Senate races and putting power in back in the hands of the states and the people, she said. The tour began Friday morning in and see them endorse Senate candidate Tom Smith.

The Tea Party Express has already endorsed Senate candidate Josh Mandel, who was originally scheduled to appear at the group’s Ohio stop, said spokesperson Taylor Budowich. Mandel had to cancel the Canfield, Ohio, event, which led to the scramble for a new location.

“On such short notice, these things happen,” he said.

While the cancellation was a bit disappointing, Budowich said local groups showed a lot of enthusiasm in helping the Tea Party Express find a new location.

After Kremer spoke, Lloyd Marcus and Diana Nagy entertained the group with a few songs. The rally was done within 20 minutes.


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