Orlando gunman’s father attends Hillary Clinton rally
Seddique Mateen told local media he believed Mrs Clinton should be the next President.
Hillary Clinton received criticism earlier this week, after the father of Orlando killer Omar Mateen attended one of her rallies.
As Mrs Clinton spoke of the mass shooting, supporters were shocked to see the father of the man who killed 49 people – many of whom were LGBT – sat just behind her.
A local television channel captured footage of Mrs Clinton this week speaking in Kissimmee, just south of Orlando.
She began her speech by paying tribute to the “countless number of people” affected by June’s attack on Pulse nightclub.
“I know how many people, families, loved ones, and friends are still grieving, and we will be with you as you rebuild your lives,” she said.
Many criticised the decision to allow Seddique Mateen, however Mrs Clinton’s campaign team claim he was not invited to the event.
Following the event, Mateen – who condemned his son’s actions, but said gay people should be “punished by God” – was quizzed about his reasons for attending.
“Hillary Clinton is good for United States versus Donald Trump, who has no solutions,” he said.
Asked about his decision to attend the event, he added: “I spoke a lot about that and wish that my son joined the Army and fought Isis. That would be much better.”
“It’s a Democratic party, so everyone can join.
“Why should they be surprised? I love the United States, and I’ve been living here a long time.”
Meanwhile, Mrs Clinton’s Republican rival found himself in hot water after apparently encouraging voters to assassinate his rival.
Mr Trump made the comments whilst suggesting Mrs Clinton will toughen gun control laws.
