Hillary Clinton returns to Park Ridge for campaign stop

PARK RIDGE, Ill. (WLS) -- Hillary Clinton returned to her roots Thursday, visiting voters in suburban Park Ridge where she grew up.

As Hillary Rodham Clinton's public life and political career continue, her visits to Park Ridge are fewer and farther between, increasing the challenge to stay connected to the northwest suburb.

It was as though Clinton had never lived in Arkansas, Washington, D.C. or New York. She was back in Park Ridge where people lined up for blocks to see the home town girl now running to lead the free world:

"It's definitely a connection," said Robert Zweifel, resident. "Whenever you talk to people, they're pretty proud of the fact that she comes from here."

Betsy Eberling, who's known Hillary since sixth grade, helped organize the event for the candidate she calls a lifelong friend.

"It's a really wonderful, everyday connection, like friends that you've had forever. It's that same, real feeling and we're very proud," Eberling said.

But it wasn't all lovefest as protesters demonstrated nearby. Jacob Walsh of Park Ridge campaigned for Donald Trump or whomever wins the Republican nomination.

"I am a GOP guy. But if Trump is the nominee, I will vote for Trump," Walsh said.

During an interview before the event, Clinton expressed confidence that she'd win the Democratic nomination.

"I think we'll have a great convention in Philadelphia and then we'll go out and carry on the campaign against Donald Trump," she said.

But last night Senator Bernie Sanders repeated his vow to continue his primary campaign.

Back in Park Ridge, count Jeannine Perkins among the residents undecided about favorite daughter Hillary Rodham.

"Think she's going to carry Park Ridge? I don't know. I think it's kind of divided, I believe. So, we'll see," she said.

After her visit to her hometown, Clinton made another fundraising stop in Chicago. Interestingly, Clinton left Park Ridge for college 50 years ago this coming fall.