President Donald Trump returned to the tri-state Friday, but this time he's hanging around awhile for his first extended vacation since taking office.
Trump is staying at his golf course in Bedminster, New Jersey, for 17 days and those in the area have mix feelings about his visit. The trip is being called a “working vacation” for Trump, but the work of others is being affected by the stay.
Chuck Owens, owner of SkyDive Jersey, said he can’t fly due to secret service restricted air space during Trump’s visit. That means he can’t pay his 25 full-time employees.
“Frustration doesn’t even begin to describe the feeling. Those repercussion last far more than just the days he’s here,” Owens said. “I would like for them to speak up and contact the secret service and say this is a state institution in outdoor entertainment that is about to disappear because of the restrictions.”
There is a VIP temporary flight restriction currently on the Morristown and Bedminster regions during the days Trump is in town.
Three other small New Jersey airport owners told News 4 New York they’re worried more trips to Bedminster will mean less money for their businesses.
“We need people to understand how that trickle down affect works so that they don't just look at the short time period that they are here,” Linda Castner, owner of Alexandria Field Airport, said.
While businesses in the air are hurting during the visit, those on the ground are singing a different tune. Between the president’s staff, fans and journalists, hotel and restaurant owners are preparing to cash in.
“They’re all excited. They know it's going to be busier,” Lisa Dichiara said. “The lines will be a little bit longer, but they will stop in.”
It will be the president’s fifth visit and longest stay to Trump National Golf Club since taking office.
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Some residents don't expect the president's visit will have much affect on them at all. Chris Dachisen has seen the president playing at his golf club in the past.
"Many times — before he was president, after he was president, sure. He's going to be over there, and it's not going to be an issue."
Other residents aren't happy to see him, but would prefer he be on vacation than in the Oval Office.
"If he's over here not making a mess, that's fine," said Himaunshu Agte. "I'd rather him golf his whole presidency than do all the stupid crap he's been doing."
Many have criticized the lengthy trip, but the White House says the main reason for the extended stay is long-planned renovations in the West Wing at the same time Congress has left Washington for their summer recess.
