President Donald Trump’s motorcade traversed rainy highways at high speeds between Texas and Oklahoma on Thursday, after severe weather conditions forced the cancellation of his planned air travel. The unscheduled road trip became a notable event as a press van accompanying the presidential convoy reportedly reached 98 mph while attempting to keep pace with the presidential limousine, known as "The Beast." Despite the rapid transit, no injuries were reported during the journey.
"I said, ‘Get your asses in that car. We’re going to Oklahoma.’" President Donald Trump
The incident unfolded after President Trump concluded an appearance at a Peterbilt Motors facility in Denton, Texas. His next scheduled event was a campaign rally in Durant, Oklahoma, approximately 80 miles away. With adverse weather making air travel unsafe, the White House made the decision to scrap the flight plans. Rather than cancel or postpone the rally, President Trump opted for the road journey, ensuring he would still meet his supporters in Oklahoma.
President Trump later recounted the experience to attendees in Durant and shared a humorous observation on Truth Social. He wrote, “‘The Beast’ is going faster than it has ever gone before,” referring to his armored limousine. Reporters traveling within the motorcade corroborated the President’s description, noting the extraordinary speed required to maintain position within the convoy.
During his address in Durant, President Trump disclosed that his aides had initially suggested postponing the event due to the weather-induced travel complications. However, he stated his firm decision to proceed. "I said, ‘Get your asses in that car. We’re going to Oklahoma,’" President Trump told the crowd, emphasizing his commitment to the rally. He also mentioned being informed that his limousine was capable of traveling at speeds close to 100 mph. The President's arrival in Oklahoma caused the rally to run behind schedule, but his appearance was ultimately made.
The day's events were part of a broader campaign swing by President Trump to support Republican candidates ahead of the upcoming November midterm elections. Earlier in Texas, he publicly endorsed Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton, highlighting Paxton's loyalty and importance to the state. "We need Ken so badly, that’s why I am here," President Trump stated, further adding, "Ken Paxton was at my side more than anybody, and I have to always remember that because he could be a pain in the a– sometimes to be honest." He concluded by calling Paxton "one of the most loyal people" and urged supporters to help secure his election.
Beyond endorsements, President Trump also used his Texas stop to address economic issues, particularly focusing on manufacturing. He claimed the United States had added 60,000 manufacturing jobs that year and reported a significant increase of approximately 31% in heavy truck manufacturing.
During the Texas appearance, former NBA star Dennis Rodman was also present. President Trump publicly acknowledged Rodman, praising his basketball career and referencing his unique relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. "When I wanted to get to know Kim Jong Un, when we’re having a problem, Kim Jong Un and I get along, but the one who knew him best was Dennis Rodman," President Trump remarked.
Despite the delays, President Trump conveyed to his Oklahoma supporters that abandoning the trip was never a serious consideration. "My heart’s in it. I would be home right now if it wasn’t," he affirmed, adding, "My heart is in it like never before." He explained that his decision to make the drive was personal, driven by Oklahoma's consistent and strong support for his presidential campaigns. He expressed appreciation for the state and predicted success for the Republican candidates he had endorsed there. "I really came here to pay my respect to a place that I love and I appreciate," President Trump concluded, solidifying the reason for his determined journey.
The unusual high-speed motorcade quickly became a memorable moment of President Trump’s campaign tour, illustrating his resolve to maintain his rally schedule despite unforeseen weather challenges.
