Protesters Removed From Trump's Clemson University Rally
Multiple protesters were removed from a rally that Donald Trump held at Clemson University in South Carolina on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. The Guardian reported that one protester was apparently punched by a rally attendee.
The event was held to support Darline Graham, sister of the late Senator Lindsey Graham, who died suddenly in July from a heart condition. Darline Graham was elected to her brother's Senate seat in a special election and is now running against Democratic challenger Annie Andrews for a full six-year term.
Interruptions began within minutes of Trump's remarks, when at least two protesters shouted to stop him. The Associated Press reported that police escorted the protesters out. A pool report, a shared account written by reporters covering the event, said Trump was interrupted at least nine times by hecklers. As security guards led protesters out of the arena, the crowd chanted "USA."
After the punch, Trump said, "That was great, man. Wow. Man, I loved that. I watched that." He then asked, "Who's the guy that threw that punch?" and said the man reminded him of Evander Holyfield, the former heavyweight boxing champion who attended the rally. Trump also said, "It takes courage to do that at a Trump rally," and "He got whacked."
