South Carolina GOP Primary Runoff Set Between Evette and Wilson

South Carolina’s Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette and State Attorney General Alan Wilson are heading to a Republican primary runoff in the bid for governor, as projected by NBC News. The runoff is scheduled for June 23, following Tuesday’s contest where no candidate received more than 50% of the vote.

The winner of this runoff is poised to become the favorite in the upcoming election to succeed Governor Henry McMaster, who cannot seek re-election due to term limits. South Carolina remains a strong Republican stronghold.

The primary race was heavily focused on winning the endorsement of former President Donald Trump. Evette successfully secured Trump’s support in the final weeks of her campaign and actively promoted this backing. On the eve of the primary, her campaign issued a news release highlighting Trump’s strong endorsement of her, which also included a tele-rally with Senator Lindsey Graham, who is seeking re-election.

After advancing to the runoff, Evette expressed her gratitude on social media, referencing Trump three times. She thanked Trump and Governor McMaster, attributing her success to their support.

Attorney General Wilson, who has held his position for over 15 years, also progressed to the runoff. Wilson emphasized endorsements from local law enforcement and his service in the South Carolina National Guard. He highlighted his commitment to tackling important issues such as lowering costs and ensuring community safety.

The primary included several notable South Carolina Republicans, including Representatives Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman, as well as businessman Rom Reddy. Mace, once considered for Trump’s endorsement, faced challenges after taking a critical stance on Trump’s actions following the January 6, 2021 Capitol attack.

Despite her past support for Trump’s campaign in 2016, Mace’s relationship with the former president frayed. This was partially due to her advocacy for the release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein, leading to a decline in her political advisers and support.

On election night, Mace finished fifth, resulting in her realigning with Wilson, whom she had previously criticized. Her statement highlighted her principled stance on various issues, despite electoral repercussions. She expressed peace with her decision, emphasizing a continued fight beyond the current election.

Norman, facing long odds for Trump’s backing, supported former Governor Nikki Haley’s presidential aspirations. Businessman Reddy, another candidate, chose to forgo campaign donations, expressing strong opposition to certain technological developments in the state.