Donald Trump's Tampa rally kicked off Saturday with prominent Florida leaders, including Attorney General Pam Bondi and Governor Rick Scott.
The opening remarks hailed Trump as hopeful and a strong leader.
During his portion, Trump addressed everything from national security to his campaigning techniques and the upcoming presidential race.
"Is there any place better than a Trump rally?" he asked his supporters.
- Trump's Tampa rally ended around 1 p.m.
- His candid speech lasted approx. an hour
- Trump covered isssues ranging from his stance on trade with China to running against Clinton
He vowed to return to Florida often in the coming months, calling the state crucial to his success in the November election.
At one point during his speech, Trump asked the crowd who he should choose to run alongside him as vice president. They had plenty of suggestions, though Condoleezza Rice appeared to be a crowd favorite.
"I’ve never done this before," said Trump of soliciting their recommendations. "This is fun."
The event, which was set to start at 11 a.m., didn't get going until noon. The presumptive Republican nominee hosted the event at the Tampa Convention Center, located at 333 South Franklin Street.
According to the Tampa Police Deparment, the space could accommodate over 9,000. About 3,000 were in attendance.Those eager supporters began lining up at the convention center early Saturday morning, several hours before the start of the rally.
Trump has won 1,542 delegates since he began his bid for the White House. A total of 1,237 delegates are needed for the nomination.
Following his Tampa rally, Trump heads to Pittsburg for another event. That rally is set to begin at 3 p.m.
Florida Democrats React
While Trump supporters were headed to the rally, the Florida Democratic Party held a press conference. Organizers said the gathering is to protest Trump's "racist rhetoric and divisive, dangerous campaign." Florida democrats say they will also call for an independent investigation into Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi and the case surrounding Trump University.
Protesters gather outside the Donald Trump rally at the Tampa Convention Center calling for an investigation into Trump University. (Sara Belsole, viewer)
The press conference began at 9 a.m. along Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park near the intersection of South Florida Avenue and Old Water Street.