MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — A significant event unfolded on Saturday when Myrtle Beach police apprehended a woman following an incident involving a firearm at a ‘No Kings’ rally in Chapin Park.

Mary Moriarty, a 59-year-old resident of Surfside Beach, faces charges of pointing and presenting a gun. This arrest was made in the midst of a large-scale demonstration, which saw around 1,000 participants gather to voice their concerns.

This protest was notably the third major rally since former President Trump returned to the political scene. It took place against a backdrop of a government shutdown, which has not only led to the closure of numerous federal programs and services but also sparked debates on the balance of power. The protesters raised alarms about what they perceive as a drift towards authoritarianism, as an assertive executive challenges Congress and the judicial system.

In addition to the Myrtle Beach gathering, similar events were organized in Conway and Florence throughout the day, reflecting a widespread call for action.

Events were held in Conway, Florence and Myrtle Beach throughout the day.

Republicans sought to portray protesters as far outside the mainstream and a prime reason for the government shutdown, now in its 18th day.

From the White House to Capitol Hill, GOP leaders called them “communists” and “Marxists.” They said Democratic leaders including Schumer are beholden to the far-left flank and willing to keep the government shut to appease those liberal forces.

“I encourage you to watch — we call it the Hate America rally — that will happen Saturday,” said House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana.

More than 1,500 people gathered in Birmingham, Alabama, evoking and openly citing the city’s history of protests and the critical role it played in the Civil Rights Movement two generations ago.

“It just feels like we’re living in an America that I don’t recognize,” said Jessica Yother, a mother of four. She and other protesters said they felt camaraderie by gathering in a state where Trump won nearly 65% of the vote last November.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this story.