COBB COUNTY, Ga – Former President Donald Trump addressed a packed crowd in Cobb County during a campaign stop that included a series of events in Georgia on a busy day for the Republican presidential candidate.

The speech was originally scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at the Cobb Energy Center, but Trump was late and didn’t take the stage until 9 p.m. The delay didn’t deter his supporters, however, who chanted, cheered and waved signs as he took the stage.

Trump opened his speech by expressing concern about the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in South Georgia and extending his “love and well wishes” to those affected. He quickly pivoted to key issues of his campaign, including immigration and inflation, and criticized the current administration’s handling of the country.

“You work longer for less money,” Trump told the crowd. “Our teachers don’t teach. Illegal immigrants are pouring in by the millions and (we are) on the brink of World War III.”

The former president also referenced the killing of nursing student Laken Riley in Athens and highlighted the case as part of his immigration policy platform. “Laken was a brilliant young student, top of her class. She will be a great nursing student. Everyone admired her. She was brutally killed while jogging. “She was attacked, beaten and murdered by an illegal immigrant,” Trump said.

In addition to his rally in Cobb County, Trump attended a town hall event earlier in the day hosted by FOX News Channel’s Harris Faulkner. The event was held at the Reid Barn in Cumming, Forsyth County, and focused on issues affecting women, including the economy, abortion, immigration and health care. The pre-recorded event will air on The Faulkner Focus on October 16th at 11am.

FOX News has extended a standing invitation to Vice President Kamala Harris for a similar event, but her campaign has not yet accepted the offer.

Trump’s visit to Georgia marks his third trip to the state this month. Last week he traveled to Valdosta and Augusta to survey the damage from Hurricane Helene. Georgia remains a key battleground in the 2024 election, with additional campaign stops planned for Savannah and Gwinnett County later this month.