Although the Oldsmar Park was fenced off, security was much more relaxed than it was during the Republican National Convention. The observation tower used by the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office
The gates opened at 8 AM to allow for an expected large crowd. Many of those attending wore red white and blue and carried campaign signs.
Rep. Bill Young left, and Gus Bilirakis.
Tempers started to flare following comments by representatives Young and Bilirakis. Congressman Young said in his remarks that he was going to keep it short because he recognized how hot it was and thought it best to hurry and get Ryan on stage. However, after the politicians left the stage together there was a 30 minute delay filled with country music and more heat and September humidity.
Due to the blazing heat and long intermission between speakers some attendees used their campaign signs for shade
At times groups began to chant, "Give us fans!", and at one point between country songs a man jumped to his feet and yelled "Let's get this god damned thing going". Members of the crowd were heard questioning themselves as to why they would hold a rally in the middle of the day in Florida.
September sunshine, high humidity, and the shoulder to shoulder crowd contributed to considerable heat during the rally.
Ryan delivered his 15-minute address and the crowd dispersed to cool off.