JOPLIN, Mo. —
Rush Limbaugh stayed away from partisan rhetoric Monday night during a stop in Joplin, instead praising the community for its self-reliance and work ethic in the aftermath of the deadliest tornado in decades.
“You are going to show the country how it is done,” Limbaugh said in a short speech during the “Rockin’ 4th of July” event in Landreth Park.
Limbaugh, who also shipped a truckload of iced tea products to the event, said he understands how Missouri residents think, being from Southeast Missouri himself.
His appearance evolved from a contest conducted to promote his company, Two If By Tea. The contest sought nominations for Limbaugh to send a truckload of chilled tea products to a Fourth of July celebration in a city that “celebrates American pride.” A number of contest entries nominated Joplin, citing the May 22 tornado.
Limbaugh, a commentator and talk show host known for his conservative stances, stayed away from politics and instead vowed to keep telling the story of Joplin’s recovery.
“What I am going to do is keep the spotlight on Joplin, Missouri,” he said, “and what you are doing and how you are overcoming something that was thrown your way.”
Some of those who attended the event said they were grateful that Limbaugh came to Joplin.
“I got a lot of friends. Some like Rush and some don’t,” said David Weaver, of Duquesne, who said he lost two houses in the tornado. “It was neat of him. He got some national attention for us. He has brought something to Joplin.
“It is neat to see a national figure, whether it is President Obama or Rush Limbaugh, two opposite ends of the spectrum, both come to Joplin to find a welcome.”
Obama visited Joplin on May 29.
John Seward, 90, of Joplin, a World War II veteran who survived the tornado in a van and suffered a head injury, said he is a fan of Limbaugh’s, and he also praised the tea.
“That was really a blessing,” he said of Limbaugh’s appearance.
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