Journalists, Political Enthusiasts Converge on Farmville for Kaine/Pence Debate

By Crystal Vandegrift, Staff Writer

For more photos of this event go to http://southsidemessengerphotos.shutterfly.com

On Tuesday, October 4, Longwood University hosted the one and only United States Vice Presidential Debate of the 2016 election with more than 2,000 journalists from around the world covering the event.

Longwood University Police, Farmville Police, Prince Edward County Sheriff’s Office, State Police and our many local, regional, state and federal public safety resources coordinated to provide public safety throughout Longwood University and the town. According to Town of Farmville officials, there were no arrests or charges in connection with the debate. Law enforcement officers responded to no more than a dozen questions and concerns raised by residents from Sunday to Tuesday evening. Nothing of significance was reported.

There were a minimal number of protesters present on and around the Longwood University campus and in downtown Farmville.

“We would like to thank area residents and merchants for their patience and for being forthcoming with concerns and issues that developed leading up to the debate,” said Acting Town of Farmville Police Chief Andy Ellington. “This historic event definitely would not have been the success it was without the cooperation and dedication of officers, deputies, fire, EMS, town public works employees and other agencies.”

As for the debate itself, local residents we talked to commented on how they felt Mike Pence won the debate and maintained a good demeanor while Tim Kaine was seen to be rude with numerous interruption throughout. “I think Kaine was a bully, he wouldn’t shut up long enough for Pence to be able to answer anything.” Said Margie Franklin.

Another local resident said, “Kaine looked really bad trying to keep all of Hillary’s lies and deceptions straight. Pence is the best choice of all four of them. He (Pence) should have sought the nomination.”

As Wednesday morning rolled around news stations were tearing down sets and packing up while the security fence around Longwood was coming down and the Town of Farmville and Longwood University was returning to normal day to day actives.