COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) Donald Trump used college football rivalry weekend to bask among his supporters in a state and region that are key to his presidential fortunes, while trying to upstage his Republican opponent Nikki Haley on her home turf at the Clemson-South Carolina football game.

The former president and current front-runner for the 2024 Republican nomination walked into Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia on Saturday night to chants of We want Trump! We want Trump! from fans gathered for the annual Palmetto Bowl, the states biggest sporting event of the year.

Haley, a Clemson alumna and trustee who was twice elected South Carolina governor, did not attend.

Trump was a guest of Gov. Henry McMaster, Haleys successor. The entourage, which entered through a veritable tunnel of Trump supporters on its way to a private suite, also included South Carolinas senior U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, giving the former president a show of local political force at a game featuring Haleys alma mater.

McMaster ascended to the governors office in 2017 when Trump elevated Haley to United Nations ambassador. Graham and Haley have mostly been allies over the years. But both men now back Trump, and the former president enjoys a wide polling lead among Republican primary voters. That includes nationally and in early nominating states like South Carolina.

At halftime, Trump came down to the field with McMaster, drawing mostly cheers and a smattering of boos as he walked around, posed for a few photos and waved. ESPNs broadcast on the SEC Network also showed the former president sitting with McMaster during the game.