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Cole to introduce Trump at Thursday rally

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — State Senate President and Republican gubernatorial candidate Bill Cole will introduce Donald Trump during his campaign rally Thursday night at the Charleston Civic Center.

Cole, who announced his support for Trump Tuesday, said Wednesday on MetroNews “Talkline” he backs Trump for president because of his support for coal and his experience as a businessman.

“Successful business people have a trait that they will surround themselves with very bright people. Not ‘yes’ men or women but bright people and then empower them to go do the job,” Cole said.

Trump is in the presidential race for the right reasons, Cole said.

“He wants to restore America to a better time.”

Cole said he was asked to introduce the presumptive Republican presidential nominee after he announced his support for Trump. He said Wednesday he didn’t endorse Trump so he would be asked.

Cole, a successful businessman who hopes to be West Virginia’s next governor, said the two candidates have some things in common.

“(It’s about) trying to make a difference for West Virginia and in his case not only for West Virginia but the whole country,” Cole said. “It’s not about building a political career.”