Presidential hopeful Ben Carson makes stop in Conroe

CONROE, TX (KTRK) -- Republican presidential candidate Dr. Ben Carson wouldn't respond to barbs from Donald Trump as he addressed reporters before a sold-out event in Conroe Thursday night.

"I'm never going to get into the mud and sling mud. All that does is provide entertainment for people and we have such important things to deal with in this country," said Carson.

About 1,500 people filled the auditorium at Conroe High School and part of an overflow room. It was Carson's first visit to Montgomery County. He was well-received.

"I think people are hungry for change," said David Greenfield, who watched Carson from the overflow room.

Carson had just gotten good news: he's up 10 points in the latest poll of GOP presidential candidates.

"That's a very good thing because it means people are starting to listen," said Carson speaking to reporters before the speech.

The incredibly accomplished neurosurgeon is second to Donald Trump who had just called him an "OK doctor" and questioned his faith. Carson would not fire back.

In his hour-long appearance that included a question and answer portion, he alluded only alluded to the current administration and let his life story-his rise from poverty to success speak or itself.

Presented by the Montgomery County Republican Party, the crowd was friendly. Many people saw the chance to see him in person as a research opportunity.

"I've seen a different side of him and have seen his leadership qualities," Tom Brady said.

In the pre-event, media availability, Carson also talked about immigration, Ebola, Deputy Darren Gofoth's murder and violence against police. He goes to Ferguson, Missouri Friday.