Trump Kicks Off the Daytona 500, and a Race for Florida Votes

Recent polls in Florida show Mr. Trump hovering around 49 percent or 50 percent when matched against the leading Democratic presidential candidates, underscoring how close the state is likely to be again this year. A survey at the end of January showed Mr. Trump defeating all four of the top Democratic contenders.

Much of that support probably comes from conservative parts of Florida, where NASCAR racing is extremely popular. The Daytona speedway, known as the World Center of Racing, is the main center for the sport. The 500-mile, 200-lap competition is the start of the NASCAR racing season.

Last year, Mr. Trump welcomed Joey Logano, the 2018 winner of the NASCAR Cup Series, at the White House, honoring him alongside his No. 22, bright yellow Ford Fusion in which he dominated the season.

“NASCAR is not only a thrilling display of skill and power, but a celebration of the American spirit. So true,” Mr. Trump said in April. “No matter who wins the race, you never forget what matters most: God, family and country. And nobody embodies that more than you folks, I’ll tell you.”

Article source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/02/16/us/politics/trump-daytona.html?emc=rss&partner=rss