Chaos erupts at Trump’s South Carolina rally as protesters posing as MAGA fans try to derail event before loyalists step in to the delight of president

Donald Trump’s South Carolina rally was interrupted by at least six protesters during its first 20 minutes as he campaigned for Darline Graham, his chosen candidate for the US Senate. The disruptions drew chants from supporters and highlighted tensions at the event, where a supporter appeared to punch one protester.

Trump called the protesters “paid” and praised the supporter after checking on the crowd. He also attacked Democratic candidate Annie Andrews with a slur over her alleged support for transgender policies; Andrews has called his name-calling a distraction from living costs. Trump urged voters to treat the midterms as if he were on the ballot and repeated his pledge of $5,000 cheques to American adults if Republicans retain both chambers of Congress.