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Mr Trump told the crowd he recognised the man after seeing him being interviewed by the media before his rally started. The supporter was identified as Gene Huber, who has spoke to a number of US broadcasting companies, including Fox News and CNN.

GETTY/ TWITTER There are claims Gene Huber was planted in the crowd

FACEBOOK Gene Huber posted that Trump was calling him on his Facebook page

Yet social media users were quick to claim Trump inviting Mr Huber on stage was a carefully orchestrated ploy. CNN’s Jacki Schechner claimed Mr Huber was planted in the crowd. She tweeted: “No way Secret Service would have let Gene Huber on stage w/o his being vetted. Huber just said he salutes a box of paraphernalia every day.”

Gene Huber was staged. Def not a random. Here's his FB page: https://t.co/7GG6OGMiYG Posted from Trump Winery two days ago. pic.twitter.com/SqIQWTMFAz — JackiSchechner (@JackiSchechner) February 18, 2017

Ms Schechner added: “Gene Huber was staged. Def not a random. Here's his FB page… Posted from Trump Winery two days ago.” Mr Huber also posted a picture on his Facebook claiming that the President had called him. He greeted the former business tycoon with a hug after being told by the Republican to jump the barrier and address the crowd.

First 100 days of President Trump Mon, June 12, 2017 President Donald Trump is making a significant impact on global politics during his first term. Play slideshow REUTERS 1 of 23 President Donald Trump arrives at Newark International airport

FACEBOOK Gene Huber posted from Trump Winery