A local Republican representative is expressing concern about her party’s front runner for the nomination.

District 27A Rep. Peggy Bennett said though Donald Trump’s antagonistic approach concerns her, she understands his supporters’ connection with his anti-establishment platform.

She said as the leader thus far for the Republican nomination, Trump has fanned the flames of anger and frustration without producing a lot of substantive arguments, and has devolved the race with insults.

Bennett, R-Albert Lea, specifically mentioned Trump’s mocking of the disabled and his use of profanity as signs he lacks character, something she places a high emphasis on.

Trump, who won seven state primaries on Tuesday, has emerged as the party’s front runner and has drawn questions on how the party’s establishment would handle his nomination.

Bennett said the party needs to remain unified whoever its nominee is.

“Whatever we do we need to come together,” she said.

Gary Schindler, DFL-Albert Lea, who is running for District 27A representative, said Trump is seemingly tapping into voter frustration with the gridlock at the national level.

“I think that there are lessons to be learned in that frustration as we look to the state of Minnesota,” Schindler said. “People want their government to be responsive to their needs.”

He said it appeared Minnesotans were not supportive of Trump or his message based on his third-place finish in the Minnesota Republican caucuses.

Trump has drawn key Republican endorsements, including Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions and New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, as well as the ire of 2012 Republican nominee Mitt Romney, who described Trump as a bully.

Registered Republican Milan Hart, a former candidate for District 27A representative, said Trump has finally awoken the nation to the problems it faces.

He said he appreciates Trump rejecting political correctness and illegal immigration.

“What is so wrong about doing things legally?” Hart asked.

He said he appreciates Trump standing up for law enforcement and his proposal to temporarily ban Muslims from entering the country.

Hart proposed assisting homeless veterans before accepting Syrian refugees and thanked Trump for his support of the proposal.

Hart, who said he supported Rand Paul, said he hasn’t decided who he will vote for, but is strongly considering Trump because he addresses issues other candidates will not broach.

Freeborn County Republican Party Chairman Brian Hensley said Trump has energized a portion of the party from his anti-establishment position and his willingness to challenge others.

He said Trump’s bluntness helps him gain support but also enemies.

Hensley said his supporters are drawn to his lack of political experience, but noted there are many states left to go before the nomination.