What Morris County Locals Really Think About Trump's Visits

MORRISTOWN, NJ — For the second summer in a row, President Donald Trump has spent several summer weekends away from Washington and in his Bedminster, New Jersey golf course. His visits always get Morris County locals talking, as he flies into Morristown Municipal Airport en route to Trump National Golf Course.

So far, Trump has spent three weekends in Bedminster this summer, usually flying into Morristown mid-evening on Friday and flying back to Washington, D.C. Sunday around dinner time. Last summer he also spent three weeks in New Jersey during White House renovations.

With a probable fourth visit approaching, what do locals really think about Trump's visits to the area? We asked Patch readers across Morris County what they thought about the visits and received dozens of responses.

Here's what they said:

For many, Trump's visits are a point of pride. Dozens of readers left short comments calling the visits "great" and saying they were excited the president chose to vacation in New Jersey.

Others encouraged him to visit as often as he wants (typically, Trump spends summer weeks in New Jersey and flies to Mar-A-Lago in Florida for getaways at other points in the year).

"I think it’s great and hopes he finds time for family and relaxation," Jill Ann Bardi wrote.

Cindy McKernan Olsen shared similar thoughts, writing, "He owns the place! Why wouldn't he stay there! Plus, it's probably the easiest place for security, so let them enjoy! No one cried when the Obamas went to Hawaii every year!"

For some residents, the frustration around Trump's visits have nothing to do with the president himself, but instead stem from the impacts to their lives, traffic and flight restrictions being the two biggest ones.

Generally, when Trump flies into Morristown roads directly around the airport are closed, and all of the roads between Morristown and Bedminster see delays.

Local Michele Truppo-D'Alia called the visits "not so great for us who live by the airport and they close the roads or we need to listen to the very loud helicopters over our houses before he lands."

That sentiment was echoed by others who just wanted an easy drive home from work. "I don't [care] who the president is, I don't want them in my area messing up my traffic," Keighty Simmons said.

Frank Gelatka mentioned the impact flight restrictions have on small businesses, saying, "Surrounding airports are losing tons of money from him being here every weekend. Pilots would love to enjoy their hobby of flying their private planes on the weekend but can’t. He does deserve some him time. But spread the love to your other golf courses once in awhile."

And for some, the visits don't affect them at all.

"I have no problem with his visits," Christina Cassandra wrote without.

"It really makes a limited impact," Stephen Madonna said.

What do you think about Trump's visits to New Jersey? Let Patch know in the comments. Want emails when he's flying into New Jersey? Click here to find your Morris County Patch and subscribe.

Read More:

• Kids Can't Fly Model Airplanes When Trump Comes to Bedminster
• Trump To Visit Bedminster For 18 Days, Will 'Devastate' Local Airports
• President Trump's N.J. Vacation Squashes Special Surprise For Local Campers
• Watch Air Force One Fly Over Morristown

BEDMINSTER TOWNSHIP, NJ - NOVEMBER 20: President-elect Donald Trump stands outside the clubhouse following his meeting with Peter Kirsanow, attorney and member of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, at Trump International Golf Club, November 20, 2016 in Bedminster Township, New Jersey. Trump and his transition team are in the process of filling cabinet and other high level positions for the new administration. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)