Dual Endorsement Shakes Up South Carolina Runoff

President Donald Trump issued a rare dual endorsement, supporting both Attorney General Alan Wilson and Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette. This move comes in the final days of the South Carolina Republican gubernatorial runoff. Trump had previously endorsed only Evette before the state’s June 9 primary.

Trump’s Statement

On Truth Social, Trump praised both Evette and Wilson, saying they have had exceptional careers and supported him from the start. He mentioned they embody the MAGA and America First principles. “These were the two that I was hoping would get into a Runoff, and they did,” Trump stated. “I can’t hurt one by only endorsing the other, so I endorse both. Vote for Pam or Alan—they will not disappoint!”

Reactions to Trump’s Endorsement

Following Trump’s announcement, Evette posted on X, highlighting her success in the primary as a Trump-endorsed candidate. She urged voters to support her again on June 23rd. Evette’s campaign referred inquiries about the dual endorsement to her X post.

Democrat Mandy Powers Norrell noted on Facebook that Wilson’s endorsement was “bound to happen” as he gained momentum in the race. She suggested the move could impact Evette’s campaign but emphasized voter participation.

Trump has faced mixed outcomes in other elections. His endorsed candidates lost races in Louisiana and Kentucky, while his choice in Iowa’s GOP primary for governor also faced defeat.

Poll Insights

Recent polling from JMC Analytics and Polling indicates that 59 percent of respondents would choose Wilson, while 25 percent would select Evette. The poll shows 16 percent remain undecided. For a forced ballot, Wilson leads with 63 percent compared to Evette’s 28 percent, with 9 percent undecided. This survey involved 500 respondents from June 13-15 and has a margin of error of 4.38 percent.

An earlier poll by Trafalgar Group, conducted before the June 9 primary, placed Evette ahead in a crowded field with 22.4 percent, while Wilson had 20.7 percent. This poll surveyed 1,200 likely Republican primary voters from June 5-7, with a margin of error of 2.9 percent.