South Carolina voters are returning to the polls Tuesday to decide the Republican nominee for governor in a runoff election that has intensified into a significant contest between two prominent state politicians.
Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette and Attorney General Alan Wilson were the top two vote-getters in the June 9 primary but neither secured the majority needed to win outright. Initially, President Donald Trump endorsed Evette over Wilson. However, as Wilson appeared to gain traction leading into the runoff, Trump issued a statement Friday endorsing both candidates, a move that introduced a new dynamic for voters seeking his guidance.
Trump's endorsement has frequently been a deciding factor in Republican primaries this year, though its impact has varied, particularly in gubernatorial races. Trump's preferred candidates in Iowa and Georgia did not secure victories in their respective races earlier this month.
The race has been characterized by extensive advertising across television, mail, and billboards. It began more than a year ago in South Carolina's first open gubernatorial contest in over a decade, with candidates vying for attention. Trump remains popular in the state, and alignment with the former president has been a central theme for all Republican contenders for the governor's office.
Campaign Debates and Endorsements
A week before the runoff, the candidates participated in their sole debate. The format, which allowed rebuttals whenever a candidate's name was mentioned, led to frequent interruptions and devolved into exchanges over accusations of mudslinging and discussions of taxpayer-funded salary increases. Audience reactions, including jeers and shouts, at times drowned out the candidates' responses.
During the debate, Wilson criticized Evette for missing previous debates and accused her of misrepresenting her role in signing legislation. Evette, in turn, labeled Wilson a "career politician" and highlighted Trump's primary endorsement of her.
Evette has consistently emphasized Trump's endorsement in her campaign materials, portraying herself as his chosen candidate. She also has the support of Gov. Henry McMaster, who selected Evette as his running mate in the 2018 and 2022 gubernatorial elections.
Following Trump's dual endorsement, Wilson also began promoting the president's support. Shortly after Trump's social media post, Senator Tim Scott announced his backing for Wilson. Sources close to Scott indicated he had been actively involved in supporting Wilson, including fundraising and lobbying Trump on his behalf.
Wilson has also garnered endorsements from other Republicans who did not advance to the runoff, including U.S. Representatives Ralph Norman and Nancy Mace, and state Senator Josh Kimbrell. On Monday, Senator Ted Cruz visited South Carolina to campaign for Wilson.
Competition for Trump's endorsement has been a prominent feature of the primary campaign. Before her primary endorsement, Evette frequently used images and videos of herself with Trump in her campaign materials. Mace and Norman also emphasized their alignment with Trump's policies and legislative priorities.
Wilson, who has served as South Carolina's top prosecutor since 2011, has highlighted his legal actions in support of the Trump administration. He also traveled to New York to support Trump during his hush money trial.