I'm not about to say this for condoning his actions, but as an observer in a southern red state: It's a lot to do with his brashness and no fucks given. Also the appearance of going into politics as an outsider to the system.
To them, his openness to a lot of his, eh, trumpisms, is better than how most politicians conduct themselves. I could be wrong, but it's the sentiment and vibe I get from the people that like him around here give off.
Hol' up