Trump Adjusts Endorsement Strategy in South Carolina Governor Race
President Donald Trump has shifted his approach in the 2026 South Carolina governor’s race by co-endorsing both remaining Republican candidates in the June 23 runoff. This move comes after earlier endorsements in other states produced mixed outcomes for his preferred candidates. The decision reflects a pragmatic effort to maintain influence within the Republican Party without risking further setbacks.
The race to succeed term-limited Governor Henry McMaster has drawn significant attention. Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette and Attorney General Alan Wilson advanced to the runoff following the June 9 primary. Trump initially backed Evette in late May but expanded his support to include Wilson on June 19.
Background on the Open Governor’s Seat
South Carolina voters will select a new governor in the November 3 general election. McMaster, a Republican, is ineligible to run again due to term limits. The state’s Republican primary has long been the decisive contest in gubernatorial elections, given the party’s strong performance in recent cycles.
Polling organizations have rated the general election as safe for the eventual Republican nominee. Cook Political Report, Inside Elections, and Sabato’s Crystal Ball all classify the contest as solidly Republican. This context underscores why the June 23 runoff carries outsized importance for the party’s future direction.
Details of Trump’s Co-Endorsement
In a Truth Social post, Trump praised both candidates as “Highly Respected” and “America First conservatives.” He stated that the two candidates were the ones he had hoped would reach the runoff and noted that endorsing only one could harm the other. The message concluded with a call for voters to support either Evette or Wilson, emphasizing that both would serve the state effectively.
The dual endorsement marks a departure from Trump’s typical approach of selecting a single favorite in contested primaries. Observers interpret the move as an attempt to hedge against additional losses in governor’s races this cycle.
Evette’s Path to the Runoff
Pamela Evette has served as lieutenant governor since 2019. She secured Trump’s initial endorsement in May after demonstrating loyalty during his 2024 presidential campaign. Evette positioned herself as a continuation of the current administration’s priorities, including economic development and conservative social policies.
Her campaign highlighted experience in state government and early alignment with Trump’s agenda. Despite the endorsement, she did not secure an outright primary victory, forcing the runoff against Wilson.
Wilson’s Background and Strengths
Alan Wilson has held the office of attorney general since 2011. He brings a long record of legal and political experience to the contest. Wilson has focused on issues such as consumer protection, public safety, and resistance to federal overreach.
Supporters point to his tenure as a stabilizing force within state government. The co-endorsement from Trump provides Wilson with additional visibility heading into the runoff.
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Broader Context of Trump’s Endorsement Record
Trump’s involvement in multiple 2026 governor’s races has produced uneven results. Several candidates he backed failed to advance or faced stronger-than-expected opposition. The South Carolina adjustment appears designed to protect his standing ahead of the general election season.
Political analysts note that the dual endorsement reduces the risk of alienating either faction within the state Republican Party. It also allows Trump to claim credit for the eventual nominee regardless of the runoff outcome.
Key Issues in the South Carolina Campaign
Voters in the runoff will weigh several policy priorities. Economic growth, education funding, infrastructure investment, and public safety rank among the most prominent concerns. Both candidates have addressed these topics in debates and campaign materials.
Evette has emphasized continuity with McMaster’s administration, while Wilson has highlighted his independent record as attorney general. The co-endorsement from Trump may encourage both candidates to stress alignment with national Republican themes.
Timeline Leading to the June 23 Runoff
The Republican primary on June 9 narrowed the field to Evette and Wilson. Trump’s May endorsement of Evette set the stage for the runoff dynamics. His June 19 co-endorsement introduced a new variable just days before ballots are cast.
Early voting and absentee ballots are already underway in parts of the state. Campaign teams for both candidates are adjusting messaging to incorporate the president’s latest statement.
Implications for the November General Election
The winner of the Republican runoff will face Democratic nominee Jermaine Johnson and Green Party candidate Walid Hakim in November. Given the state’s partisan makeup, the Republican nominee enters the general election with a substantial advantage.
Trump’s involvement signals continued national interest in the outcome. The president’s endorsement strategy may influence turnout among his core supporters on June 23.
Reactions from Candidates and Party Leaders
Both Evette and Wilson welcomed the co-endorsement. Campaign statements from each side stressed gratitude for Trump’s support and commitment to the America First agenda. State Republican leaders have largely avoided public criticism of the dual backing.
Local media outlets have framed the development as a sign of party unity heading into the general election. The absence of a divisive primary fight could benefit the eventual nominee.
Photo by Darren Halstead on Unsplash
Looking Ahead to Election Day
With the runoff just days away, attention will shift quickly to the November contest. The Republican nominee will seek to maintain the party’s hold on the governor’s mansion while navigating national political currents.
Trump’s willingness to endorse both finalists may set a precedent for other contested races. Observers will watch whether similar hedging occurs in remaining primaries across the country.
