Carter Machinery in Salem Prepares for Romney Visit - FOX 21/27 WFXR Roanoke/WWCW Lynchburg News, Weather

Carter Machinery in Salem Prepares for Romney Visit

On Friday afternoon Carter Machinery CEO Jim Parker was preparing for a relaxing weekend.

Then he got a surprise visit from Salem Congressman Morgan Griffith who informed Parker that Republican Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney was making a stop in the Roanoke Valley, and Carter Machinery was being considered.

By Saturday evening that consideration became a reality.

"Our customers are struggling and we need a change in Washington," Parker said. "To have the opportunity to host a candidate like Mitt Romney is special."

On Monday crews began setting up the outdoor stage where Romney will give his speech, which is expected to focus on jobs and energy policy like coal mining.

Which is an issue that Parker has been watching closely.

"The actions that are being taken by the administration or I should say by the EPA supported by the administration are over the top," he said. "Over the top negative and it's impacting the coal industry significantly."

Salem is no stranger to presidential politics.

Back in 2008 vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin made her way to the city and instead of stopping by a private business like Carter Machinery came to Salem Stadium attracting 15,000 people.

Planning for Palin's visit four years ago tied up a majority of Salem's city employees.

But this time around only police are being used for Romney's visit with the city having no involvement in the planning.

Carter Machinery is preparing for as many as 3,000 and 4,000 people.

Romney is scheduled to take the stage just after noon on Tuesday with the doors opening at 10 a.m.

The event is free and open to the public but tickets are required.