Llana Samuel, News Editor

The 2016 presidential race was afire long before the new year and it didn’t stop as thousands turned out to “Feel the Bern” and get a glimpse of “The Donald” in the lowcountry. The two controversial candidates visited Savannah and Hilton Head Island within weeks of each other last December.

Sanders’ visit to Savannah in December garnered such a huge crowd that the event, originally planned to be at Savannah Station, was moved to the Civic center to accommodate the crowds. Many students were also in attendance to hear the Vermont senator’s plans for education, particularly tuition prices.

Donald Trump, probably the most controversial candidate thus far, also made an appearance at the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa days before the new year. Again, thousands turned out to listen to the republican candidate talk about his strategies, President Obama’s policies and witness the occasional jab at opponents.

Just last week, North Charleston hosted the leading republican presidential candidates for their first televised debate of the new year. More candidates are expected to visit the Lowcountry this year ahead of elections in November.