On July 1, the small city of Pickens, South Carolina, was transformed into a bustling hub as former President Donald Trump held his first rally since being federally indicted in Florida. The event drew a crowd of approximately 30,000 people, swelling the population of Pickens to ten times its usual size. For many residents, this was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
As the temperature climbed to a scorching 90 degrees, thousands of people packed Main Street, nestled between vintage brick buildings, to hear Trump speak. U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a staunch supporter of the former president, described the atmosphere as a “great big party, just like all Trump rallies are.” However, amid the festivities, Greene also addressed the serious matter of the criminal charges against Trump, stating her belief in his innocence and emphasizing his importance in saving America.
One resident, Tina Tanner, expressed her excitement at the opportunity to see a former president in person. Although she did not vote for Trump in 2016, she admired his leadership in running the country and ultimately cast her vote for him in 2020. Tanner also voiced skepticism towards the media and their portrayal of the charges against Trump, perceiving bias in the justice system.
During his speech, Trump defended himself against the criminal charges, reading aloud court rulings that supported a president’s discretion in determining the classification of records. He claimed that the accusations against him were baseless and a part of the Democrats’ new form of cheating: weaponizing the justice system for political gain. Trump specifically criticized Democrat prosecutor Fani Willis and threatened to direct a “completely overhauled DOJ” to investigate radical district attorneys across America if he were elected.
Residents of Pickens were thrilled to host the rally, considering it to be a monumental event in the history of their town. The idea for the rally came about when Senator Lindsey Graham, a native of Central, a nearby town, visited a local azalea festival. The picturesque Main Street of Pickens, reminiscent of the fictional Mayberry from “The Andy Griffith Show,” proved to be a perfect backdrop for the all-American event.
However, not everyone at the rally was in support of Senator Graham. Some attendees disapproved of his apparent flip-flopping on Trump, particularly after the events of January 6, 2021, when violence erupted at the U.S. Capitol. Graham’s criticism of Trump and praise for Biden during that time strained his relationship with many Trump supporters.
Despite the threat of severe thunderstorms, the crowd remained undeterred, demonstrating their unwavering support for Trump. Ed Leese, who runs the “Pickens Local” Facebook page and podcast, described Trump’s appeal as rooted in his accomplishments for America. Supporters credit him with the revitalization of the economy and the restoration of respect for the nation on the world stage.
In conclusion, the Trump rally in Pickens, South Carolina, drew a massive crowd, creating a lively atmosphere reminiscent of a great big party. Amidst the festivities, supporters passionately voiced their belief in Trump’s innocence and his ability to save America. The event also highlighted the rift between Trump supporters and Senator Lindsey Graham, with some attendees expressing disappointment in his perceived inconsistency. Despite the threat of severe weather, the rally proceeded as planned, reflecting the unwavering dedication of Trump’s followers.
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