Democratic presidential candidate Beto O'Rourke brought his campaign to Erie Thursday, visiting an employer and hosting a town hall.

The former Texas Congressman got a first-hand look at DonJon Shipbuilding and Repair and asked questions about the workforce and need for education and skills training.

He also hosted a town hall meeting at Lavery Brewing Company, where he was greeted by a crowd singing Happy Birthday to him.

O'Rourke said he favored immigration reform, which drew loud cheers from the crowd.

"Free every single dreamer from the fear of deportation by making them U.S. citizens in this, their true home country," said O'Rourke.

O'Rourke also said he favors the controversial giveback program for assault-style weapons. He believes most Americans agree with him.

"Even Republicans and gun owners, as well as Democrats and non-gun owners, know that this is the right thing to do," said O'Rourke.

O'Rourke also said he favors moving away from fossil fuels to combat climate change.

He also made it clear he favors the impeachment inquiry and is no fan of President Trump, which drew large applause from the crowd.

"If we set the precedent that some people are above the law because of their position of power, and the position they hold, we lose this democracy forever," said O'Rourke. "There must be accountability and justice."

O'Rourke said while early caucus and primary states like Iowa and New Hampshire are important, Pennsylvania will be critical in next year's election. He said that's why he is visiting Erie a full seven months before next April's primary.

"Pennsylvania will help determine the next President," said O'Rourke. "We saw that in 2016 loud and clear."

O'Rourke said he stopped in Erie at the urging of his friend, State Rep. Ryan Bizzarro.

Supporters told Erie News Now they like what they heard.

"I was very impressed with him," said Jack Stewart, who attended the town hall. "[He] seemed down to earth and very knowledgeable."

"He did not make anyone feel bad about themselves," said Tricia Rinderle, who was also there for O'Rourke's town hall. "He made everyone feel accepted. I feel that is really important today."