Motorsports

Donald Trump snags NASCAR endorsements

CEO, some drivers voice their support for the Republican candidate

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has the support of a prominent faction of NASCAR. Series CEO Brian France, legendary driver Bill Elliott, and several current drivers, including Sprint Cup veteran Ryan Newman, endorsed Trump Monday night at a rally in Valdosta, GA.

NASCAR drivers Chase Elliott (Bill's son) and David Lee Regan also announced their support at the event. The move comes as Americans head to the polls for Super Tuesday voting across the nation. Many of the primaries or caucuses today are in Southern states where NASCAR's base is strong, including Alabama, Georgia, Texas, and Virginia. Minnesota, Vermont, and other states are also voting Tuesday.

"I am proud to receive the endorsement of such an iconic brand and a quality person such as Brian [France]," Trump said in a statement. "Brian has a wonderful family and is an incredibly successful business person. I have great respect for Brian and I am grateful for his support and that of Bill Elliott, one of the best drivers in history, and active stock car racers, including his son Chase Elliott, Ryan Newman, and David Lee Regan."

Trump has emerged as a frontrunner for the GOP nomination – and a lightning rod for his outspoken manner. Support for the candidate, however, was not universal from NASCAR. Camping World chief executive Marcus Lemonis, who oversees the company that is the title sponsor for NASCAR's truck series, tweeted his displeasure yesterday. Lemonis last year forced NASCAR to move a banquet from a Trump resort because of the Trump's comments about immigrants, ESPN reported.


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