A Franklin restaurant was again the site of a campaign visit when Gov. Mike Pence stopped in during lunch on Thursday.
Pence visited Greek’s Pizzeria and Tapp Room on Thursday, stopping in briefly as part of his campaign for re-election. The same restaurant also was a stop for U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz’s presidential campaign before this year’s primary election.
Pence praised Johnson County for its Republican leadership and applauded its growth.
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“This is a dynamic area that’s attracting investment and creating jobs,” Pence said. “It’s important for me to be connected to this area. Johnson County is a community that’s growing with a tradition of strong, Republican leadership.”
Pence wouldn’t discuss whether he expected to be named Donald Trump’s running mate in the presidential race this fall, but did endorse the Republican nominee.
While at the restaurant, Pence also took time to sit down at each table, sharing a brief story, or simply shaking hands and introducing himself. One Franklin resident, Marilyn Watson, had no idea Pence would be stopping by when she sat down for lunch. While others, such as Adam and Tami Nuhfer, heard of Pence’s plans to visit and came to Franklin specifically for the chance to meet the governor.
The couple told their two daughters, Grace, 13, and Elaina, 11, about who Pence is and that he could possibly be the next vice president of America, Adam Nuhfer said.
“We talked about Gov. Pence and how he could be the vice president. We told our daughters he could be the one that keeps us safe,” Adam Nuhfer said. “He seems like a very genuine man. He appreciates and recognizes the importance of smaller towns and that voters’ opinions matter.”
Franklin Mayor Joe McGuinness said he appreciated the visit because of the impact on the community.
“Whether it’s a candidate or an incumbent seeking re-election, it’s good exposure for Franklin. This draws a crowd and it’s good for local business,” McGuinness said. “This is an honor. It’s just really neat.”
