Thousands of supporters gathered Friday at Rockland Community College as President Donald Trump made a historic visit to Rockland County alongside Rep. Mike Lawler, marking the first presidential appearance in the county in nearly 50 years.

The highly anticipated rally brought national attention to Rockland County, with supporters lining up hours before the event amid heavy security and increased traffic throughout the area. Organizers said more than 5,000 people attended the campaign-style event focused on affordability, tax relief, and the economy.

Trump used the rally to highlight Republican economic policies and celebrate the expansion of the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap from $10,000 to $40,000 - a major issue for homeowners across Rockland County and surrounding suburban communities.

Speaking to a packed crowd, Trump praised Rep. Mike Lawler for fighting to secure tax relief for New York residents and called the congressman “a strong voice for hardworking families.”

Lawler, who represents New York’s competitive 17th Congressional District, welcomed the president and emphasized the importance of addressing rising living costs, property taxes, and economic concerns impacting local residents.

President Trump also used the Rockland visit to announce that Welles Remy Crowther, the 9/11 hero from Nyack known as “The Man in the Red Bandana,” will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously. Crowther, who was 24 years old when he was killed in the South Tower on September 11, helped lead many people to safety and is credited with saving many lives. His mother, Alison Crowther, was present at the event, adding a deeply local and emotional moment to the visit as Rockland honored one of its most remembered heroes.

The event also drew protesters and counter-protesters outside the campus. Supporters and opponents of the president gathered near the area, with law enforcement working to keep the crowds under control.

Inside the venue, several hecklers interrupted President Trump during his speech and were removed by authorities. One protester raised a banner, while others shouted during the remarks before security escorted them out. Trump responded by mocking the protesters from the stage, at one point telling one heckler to “go home to your mom,” in a moment that reminded many in the crowd of the 2016 Trump rallies.

The rally showcased the growing political importance of Rockland County and the Hudson Valley ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Once considered solidly Democratic territory, the region has become increasingly competitive in recent election cycles.

Friday’s rally will likely be remembered as one of the largest and most significant political events Rockland County has hosted in decades.