South Carolina primary results: Trump-backed Evette in runoff for governor, ABC News projects
South Carolina Primary Race: Trump-Endorsed Evette Advances to Gubernatorial Runoff, ABC News Projects
South Carolina primary results - With the South Carolina Republican gubernatorial primary now concluded, Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette and state Attorney General Alan Wilson have been confirmed as the two candidates moving forward to the June 23 runoff. The projections, shared by ABC News, highlight the intense competition within the state's political landscape, where Trump's influence remains a defining factor. Evette, a prominent figure in South Carolina's executive branch, will face Wilson in a decisive contest that could shape the state's future leadership. This development marks a pivotal moment in the 2026 election cycle, as the final stages of the primary race unfold.
Key Moments in the Gubernatorial Primary
The race saw several notable exits, with U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace becoming one of the most talked-about candidates after her unexpected loss. Mace, who has long been a key ally of former President Donald Trump, made headlines for her dual stance during the campaign. While she publicly endorsed Trump's policies, she also took a controversial stand by voting to release files related to Jeffrey Epstein, a decision that split her base and drew criticism from some of her rivals.
"I stand by my vote to release the Epstein files," Mace stated during a recent press conference. "It was a matter of principle, even if it meant defying the leader I’ve supported for years."
This moment of defiance underscored the complexity of the race, as candidates navigated both loyalty to Trump and their own political agendas. Evette, who secured the backing of the former president, emerged as the clear frontrunner in the early stages, but Wilson’s strong grassroots support and experience in law ensured a tight contest. The runoff will determine which of these two figures will represent the Republican Party in the general election, setting the stage for a potential showdown against the Democratic nominee.
Democratic Primary Outcomes and the Road Ahead
While the Republican race has narrowed to a final two, the Democratic primary results also reveal a distinct path. ABC News projects that state Rep. Jermaine Johnson will become the Democratic gubernatorial candidate, a position he will hold in the November general election. Johnson, known for his progressive platform and focus on education and healthcare, has positioned himself as a unifying figure within the party. His victory in the primary suggests a strong grassroots movement, though it remains to be seen how he will fare against Evette or Wilson in the final round.
The Democratic primary also saw a notable shift in strategy, with Johnson’s campaign emphasizing issues like economic inequality and climate change. This contrasts with the Republican focus on national security and Trump’s legacy, reflecting the divergent priorities of the two parties. As the state prepares for the June 23 runoff, the Democratic candidate’s challenge will be to bridge the gap between the state’s traditional conservative voters and its growing progressive base.
Senate Race Projections and Political Implications
Meanwhile, the race for South Carolina’s Senate seat has also reached a critical juncture. Incumbent Sen. Lindsey Graham, a longtime Republican leader and Senate Foreign Relations Committee member, is projected to win the GOP primary. His campaign has centered on maintaining South Carolina’s role as a reliable Republican stronghold in the U.S. Senate, leveraging his experience and national influence.
Graham’s opponent in the Democratic primary is state Rep. Annie Andrews, a pediatrician and former candidate for the state’s 1st congressional district in 2022. Andrews, who ran on a platform of public service and healthcare reform, has positioned herself as a fresh face in state politics. Her return to the Senate race marks a strategic move to capitalize on her prior campaign and the current momentum in the Democratic Party.
The Senate race is expected to be a high-stakes contest, with Graham’s victory likely ensuring the continuation of his leadership in the upper chamber. Andrews, however, remains a formidable contender, as her appeal to younger voters and her focus on local issues could challenge the status quo. The November matchup will be a key test of the state’s political dynamics, with implications for national policy and South Carolina’s electoral influence.
Broader Implications for the 2026 Election Cycle
The primary results signal a broader trend in South Carolina’s political climate, where both parties are shaping their narratives for the general election. For the Republicans, the gubernatorial runoff and Senate race reflect a commitment to maintaining their traditional dominance, while the Democrats are seeking to expand their presence in state politics. The state’s alignment with national trends, particularly in issues like the economy and social policies, will play a critical role in the upcoming contests.
Evette’s path to the governor’s office is particularly intriguing, as her campaign has drawn significant support from Trump’s base. Her candidacy highlights the enduring impact of the former president’s influence on the party’s direction, even as candidates like Wilson bring a more moderate voice to the table. This balance between loyalty to Trump and a focus on state-specific issues may determine the outcome of the runoff and, ultimately, the state’s next governor.
For the Senate race, Graham’s campaign faces the challenge of retaining a seat that has historically been a Republican stronghold. His re-election would reinforce the party’s majority in the Senate, while a loss could signal a shift in the state’s political fortunes. Andrews, meanwhile, is aiming to build on her 2022 congressional campaign, which showcased her ability to connect with voters on a personal level. Her presence in the Senate race adds an element of unpredictability to the outcome.
Looking Forward: The Path to November
As the final weeks of the primary race approach, both the gubernatorial and Senate contests are entering a critical phase. The June 23 runoff will not only determine the next governor of South Carolina but also set the tone for the general election. Meanwhile, the Senate race will serve as a barometer of the state’s political mood, with voters deciding whether to uphold the current leadership or embrace a new direction.
For South Carolinians, these elections are more than just state-level contests—they are opportunities to influence the broader national agenda. The decisions made in the coming weeks will have lasting effects on policies ranging from education to foreign affairs, making the primary results a significant step in the 2026 election cycle.
Live election results will continue to be updated as voters cast their ballots, with each outcome shaping the trajectory of the state’s political future. The upcoming runoff and Senate primary will be closely watched by national analysts, as they provide insight into the shifting alliances and priorities within the Republican and Democratic parties. With the state’s electoral map in flux, the final votes in June will be a defining moment for South Carolina’s 2026 elections.