Former President Donald Trump's recent rally in Pickens, South Carolina, attracted an immense crowd, far exceeding the town's population of approximately 3,400. Pickens Police Chief Randal Beach estimated the attendance to be between 50,000 and 55,000.

This substantial turnout underscores Trump's continued popularity, especially given South Carolina's influential role as an early primary state. While other GOP candidates have visited the state, none have drawn comparable crowds. This resonates with Trump's strong performance in 2024 polls.

The Make America Great Again Inc. PAC emphasized that the enthusiasm displayed in Pickens reflects Trump's unique connection with voters, citing his achievements on issues such as college admissions, religious liberty, and student loan forgiveness.

Trump's rally effectively shut down Pickens' downtown area. He expressed his appreciation for the support, emphasizing the importance of faith, family, and country.

Attendees, some of whom lined up overnight, traveled long distances to show their support. One couple from Tennessee expressed their unwavering belief in Trump's leadership and policies.

Other Republican candidates, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, former Vice President Mike Pence, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, and Senator Tim Scott, have also campaigned in the state. However, none have matched the scale of Trump's Pickens rally.

Another attendee from Spartanburg affirmed her exclusive support for Trump, stating she would write him in if necessary. Senator Lindsey Graham and Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene also spoke at the event.

Trump's 2016 victory in South Carolina's Republican primary, with 32.5% of the vote, highlights his historical strength in the state.

Unlike his 2016 and 2020 campaigns, characterized by large rallies, Trump's 2024 strategy includes smaller events, media engagements, and direct interactions with local officials and voters. The Pickens rally was only his second large-scale event of the 2024 campaign, following one in Waco, Texas, in March.

The massive turnout at the South Carolina rally occurs amidst ongoing legal challenges for Trump, including indictments related to hush-money charges and the retention of classified documents.