Pamela Evette Leads in South Carolina Governor Primary, Runoff Expected

<p>South Carolina Republicans voted on June 9, 2026, to select their nominee for governor. With 41% of the votes counted, Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette, endorsed by former President Donald Trump, led with 29% of the vote, followed closely by Attorney General Alan Wilson at 26%. Since no candidate achieved the required 50% threshold, Evette and Wilson are projected to compete in a runoff on June 23.</p><p>Seven Republicans were in the race to succeed Governor Henry McMaster, including U.S. Representatives Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman, State Senator Josh Kimbrell, and businessman Rom Reddy. Polling indicated a competitive race with many undecided voters. Kimbrell, who had consistently polled in the single digits, withdrew from the race prior to the primary.</p><p>Trump's endorsement of Evette has been noted as a significant factor in her lead. In a May 29 post on Truth Social, Trump praised Evette, stating she is a respected leader and a strong supporter of his policies. He emphasized her loyalty and commitment to his campaign.</p><p>In contrast, Congresswoman Mace expressed disappointment over not receiving Trump's endorsement, suggesting it was a consequence of her vote to release Epstein files. Mace stated, "If the price to pay for an endorsement was to not release those files, I would never pay it," indicating her intent to vote for herself in the primary.</p><p>Evette responded to Mace's comments by suggesting that Mace's past actions may have influenced Trump's decision not to endorse her.</p><p>The next governor will face challenges including outdated infrastructure, a strained healthcare system, and educational issues. Despite these challenges, South Carolina's population has been growing rapidly, with a 1.5% increase from July 2024 to July 2025, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.</p><p>In addition to the gubernatorial primary, South Carolina also held Senate and congressional primaries, where Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, a Trump ally, was renominated for his fifth term.</p><p>Trump held a rally on June 8 to support both Graham and Evette, urging voters to support them in the upcoming elections. The Cook Political Report currently ranks both the gubernatorial and U.S. Senate races as solidly Republican.</p>