Reaction to Trump’s remarks doesn’t surprise SWFL delegates

FORT MYERS, Fla. — Three Southwest Florida delegates to next week’s Republican National Convention aren’t surprised that politicians from both sides of the aisle believe some of Donald Trump’s remarks during the campaign are racist.

Jonathan Martin, a delegate from Congressional District 19, said he finds some of what the presumptive Republican nominee has said to be troubling. But, Martin said Trump’s message is resonating with the public.

“It may be racist, but it’s, he’s saying what he feels, and they don’t like the bad stuff that he’s saying, but they like the fact that he’s getting the issues out,” Martin said.

Bill Folchi, a District 17 delegate, doesn’t think Trump is racist.

“People are too quick to pick labels,” Folchi said.

Still, District 19 delegate Mike Lyster worries that Trump’s statements will be a divisive force.

“He has said some things that have on the one hand motivated some Americans and on the other hand alienated some Americans,” Lyster said.

Regardless, the delegates maintain faith that he’ll secure the support of the party and independents and win the election in November. The convention begins Monday.