One week after President Donald Trump's endorsement streak in Republican primaries was interrupted, his influence is being tested in South Carolina's GOP gubernatorial nomination race. Trump endorsed Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette as she seeks to succeed term-limited Republican Gov. Henry McMaster. Evette is competing against several candidates, including South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, Reps. Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman, and businessman Rom Reddy. Since no candidate is expected to receive more than 50% of the primary vote, the top two finishers will advance to a runoff on June 23.
Trump's endorsement power has previously helped candidates oust incumbents in various states, but his recent endorsement of Rep. Randy Feenstra in Iowa did not lead to victory. In the South Carolina primary, candidates have been emphasizing their support for Trump to gain his backing. Trump endorsed Evette, calling her an "America First Patriot" and held a tele-rally for her campaign.
Evette highlighted Trump's endorsement in her campaign messaging, stating that he needs a strong partner as governor to support his agenda. However, Trump's comment about Evette potentially choosing Henry McMaster Jr. as her running mate sparked speculation and pushback in South Carolina. McMaster denied any deal, and Evette stated she would not announce a running mate until after the primary. McMaster Jr. later withdrew his name from consideration for the lieutenant governor position. Political strategist Dave Wilson noted that the Trump endorsement may have backfired, suggesting that South Carolinians do not respond well to external influence.