I was recently commissioned to travel around the American Midwest to record events, and general life, during the days before and after the November 5th election. As usual, I kept a personal journal, which I have shared, verbatim…
‘Sunday 3rd November – The Quality Inn, just north of New Columbia, was everything but. Left at 5am to get to a Trump rally in Lititz, Pennsylvania. Parking for the rally was way out of town, near a small airport, but the Republicans had kindly supplied free shuttle buses. At the gate, I showed my registration, which I’d used the hotel address to obtain, but was told I wouldn’t be allowed in with my camera bag. By the time I’d walked back to my car, I’d decided that I wasn’t comfortable leaving £12,000 worth of gear in the boot of my rental, so I left.’
‘Over two days I’ve driven through New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia, away from the interstates through towns and villages. I haven’t seen a single ‘Vote Harris’ sign. I point this out on social media and I’m immediately pounced upon by people saying, “That means nothing” and “It’s not an indicator of anything”. I think they’re wrong, to be honest.’
‘Stopped at a little independent diner for lunch in Goochland (that bit between Charlottesville and Richmond). I go for the ham & eggs. The waitress asks if I want country potatoes or hash browns, I say “Neither, thank you, just ham and eggs”. My all-day breakfast arrives with country potatoes, hash browns AND toast. ‘
‘Saturday 9th November – The Stars & Stripes – I think it’s the only flag in the world that’s as recognisable and iconic in black & white as it is in colour. And they’re everywhere, displayed with pride. I think you get 2 months in Belmarsh prison now for flying a Union Jack in your window.
Plan for Sunday – Get to Hull first light.Meet Marty/photograph inside and out.Hannibal for breakfast. Diner near tattoo.Back to Quincy for lunch. Start at top of Broadway St, work into town. Extra night?‘
Phil Kneen 
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