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Senator Jeff Flake challenger Dr. Kelli Ward to attend Trump rally

Posted at 9:47 PM, Aug 21, 2017
and last updated 2017-08-22 01:13:33-04

All eyes are on the Valley right now on the eve of a presidential visit.

President Donald Trump will speak at the Phoenix Convention Center Tuesday at 7 p.m. after spending the morning in Yuma. 

GUIDE: President Trump's visit to Arizona, rally in Phoenix

There’s no question that this rally comes at a critical time in our nation. With the violence that erupted in Charlottesville, Phoenix police and other law enforcement agencies across the Valley tell us they’re taking no chances.

The area around the Convention Center could see close to 10,000 people at various rallies, many of which will be in opposition to the President’s visit and his policies.

“We want to make sure we send a very loud and clear message to the rest of the country,” explains Maria Castro who’s with the group, Puente Arizona. Puente is an immigrants’ right group that has criticized President Trump for his policies and tone.

"We’re trying to unify the country against white supremacy. I think it’s a crucial moment in our history,” Castro said.

But Trump supporters are hoping the Commander in Chief makes a political splash: highlighting his agenda but also looking to the future

“I have a liking for Donald Trump, and I’m glad to see Donald Trump has a liking for me,” says Dr. Kelli Ward, who’s running against Arizona Senator Jeff Flake in 2018. Flake has been one of Trump’s harshest critics.

Just last week, the President, tweeted his support for Dr. Ward.

The big question for tomorrow: will that social media praise translate into something more?

Dr. Ward said she would be in attendance at Tuesday's rally, but would not confirm any talk of plans for an official endorsement.