South Carolina’s Republican Gubernatorial Race Heads to Runoff

On February 24, 2024, former President Donald Trump appeared at a watch party during the election night at the State Fairgrounds in Columbia, South Carolina. Joining him was Republican Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, a candidate for governor in 2026. Evette, backed by Trump, and Attorney General Alan Wilson both advanced to a gubernatorial primary runoff in two weeks. This announcement came after The Associated Press called the race as neither candidate achieved a majority vote.

In 2017, Gov. Henry McMaster propelled Evette into the political spotlight by choosing her as a running mate for his 2018 campaign. The support from both McMaster and Trump significantly raised her profile. Trump expressed full confidence in Evette, stating on Truth Social in May, “Pam has my Complete and Total Endorsement — SHE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!” He also hinted that McMaster’s son, Henry D. McMaster Jr., might partner with her in the election campaign, although both Evette and McMaster Jr. have denied any official arrangement.

Attorney General Alan Wilson, elected in 2010 and re-elected three times, holds a prominent role in the state. He is also a Colonel in the Judge Advocate General’s Corps with the South Carolina Army National Guard and is the son of Congressman Joe Wilson. Wilson drew nationwide attention for his involvement in the high-profile 2023 trial of Alex Murdaugh. The case gained further attention when the conviction was overturned by the state Supreme Court due to jury tampering, leading to a scheduled retrial.

Policy-wise, both Wilson and Evette share similar views. They agree on not extending abortion restrictions beyond the current six-week law in place. Their plans also include making governmental processes more efficient through audits and eliminating the state’s 5.21% personal income tax, a rate that has been steadily decreasing.

The lead-up to the runoff was expected in the crowded five-way race. Evette and Wilson, both holding statewide positions, are considered mainstream candidates. Others in the race, such as 1st District Congresswoman Nancy Mace and 5th District Congressman Ralph Norman, represent more conservative viewpoints.

On the Democratic side, Columbia state Rep. Jermaine Johnson, Charleston lawyer Mullins McLeod, and Greenville businessman Billy Webster are competing for their party’s nomination. Early voting saw a record turnout in the recent two weeks, coinciding with the Republican-dominated state Senate’s decision to reject a new congressional map. This vote took place as Republicans worked unsuccessfully to capture the Democratic-held 6th District represented by Congressman Jim Clyburn. The map proposal faced criticism over potential voter disenfranchisement and an expedited process.

In South Carolina’s open primaries, voters can choose to participate in either the Democratic or Republican primaries. The runoff is scheduled for June 23.