Rep. Gilliard calls for improved security in the constituency after the viral incident in Orangeburg

SOUTH CAROLINA (WCIV) – Rep. Wendell Gilliard (SC 111) has sent a letter to the executive director of the South Carolina State Election Commission urging increased security at precincts across the Palmetto State. The letter follows a heated argument between a Trump supporter and election workers in Orangeburg that was captured on video and widely viewed online.

On Wednesday, Oct. 30, a man wearing a hat who was reportedly reading “Let's Go Brandon” was involved in a physical altercation with poll workers after he was turned away from an Orangeburg County polling station for wearing clothing that was prohibited by South Carolina law.

READ MORE | “Fight erupts at Orangeburg County early voting center.”

“Let's Go Brandon” is a common phrase used by ardent supporters of Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump. The Hill reported in 2021 that the Trump campaign offered donors a “Let's Go Brandon” T-shirt to anyone who donated $45 or more.

In a letter to Howard Knapp, Executive Director of the South Carolina State Election Commission, Representative Gilliard referred to and condemned the Orangeburg incident, saying:

This behavior is unacceptable and poses a serious threat to the integrity of our electoral process.

In the letter, the representative urges Knapp to work with all levels of law enforcement to “improve security in and around all voting districts in South Carolina.” He concludes with the words:

It is critical that we provide a safe environment for every citizen to exercise their right to vote.

The letter was co-signed by Rep. Gilda Cobb-Hunter of S.C. District 95, which includes Orangeburg.

READ MORE | “SLED reminds South Carolinians not to take photos of ballots.”

Voters in South Carolina are prohibited by law from wearing any type of visual display of campaign materials.