Trump Lands In Hamptons To Protests, Support — And Traffic

WESTHAMPTON, NY — President Donald Trump has arrived on Air Force One at Francis S. Gabreski Airport in Westhampton — and his visit has sparked both strong protests and steadfast shows of support.

Protesters galvanized as President Donald Trump landed Friday. And supporters also turned out with signs of solidarity; voicing their allegiance to the President on social media, as well.

While the purpose of his visit has not been disclosed by the White House, a post by Bloomberg.com suggests the President is attending a Southampton fundraiser hosted by developer Howard Lorber, who is also executive chairman of Nathan's Famous, Inc. According to that report, the fundraiser will benefit Trump Victory, a joint committee for Trump's 2020 campaign and the Republican National Committee.

Rep. Lee Zeldin, a strong Trump supporter, was joined by Doon Gibbs, director of Brookhaven National Lab, John Raguso, father of Chris Raguso of the 106th Rescue Wing who died in a copter crash in Iraq, Westhampton Beach Mayor Maria Moore, and Quentin Palifka, ninth grade Student Council President at Rocky Point High School, to greet President Trump as he landed.

Meanwhile, in Southampton and Westhampton, protestors lined the streets with signs to protest Trump.

Organizers of the Dump Trump Protest in Southampton wrote on Facebook: "Howard Lorber will be hosting 45 for a fundraiser at his home . . .Let's make sure he hears and sees how unwelcome he is in our community!"

And, Lisa Votino Tarrant said, "I know how beautiful our community can be. There is strength in numbers and beauty in unity. Let's bring it, East End."

Others welcomed the President: "Just watched the arrival Of Donald J. Trump at Gabreski Airport in Westhampton, NY. A heartwarming welcome by so many citizens of the USA!" one man wrote.

"I am going to hang up a huge sign saying, 'Welcome, President,'" another woman wrote.

Joyce Roper protested: "I am standing up to Trump and Zeldin because they are working against all the values and principles that America should stand for. Basic dignity for all people, human rights, freedom of the press. We are headed down a dangerous, dark road but we can turn it around if we send a message and vote."

A Newsday report indicated that the fundraiser is slated to raise $3 million, according to the Republican National Committee.

It's not the first time Trump has headed to the Hamptons for a fundraiser: In 2016, before he was elected, a fundraiser was held at a Southampton estate, sparking fears of traffic woes amongst motorists on the East End.

And last year, Trump came to Long Island to fight back against MS-13.

Photo Alex Wong/Getty Images News/Getty Images

Patch photos of protests courtesy Joyce Roper and Lisa Votino-Tarrant.