Former President Donald Trump made a notable move ahead of South Carolina’s Republican gubernatorial runoff. He chose to endorse both longtime South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson and Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette. Trump expressed his support on Truth Social, stating, “I can’t hurt one of them by only endorsing the other, so I am endorsing both Pam Evette and Alan Wilson! With either one you can’t go wrong.”
The decision mirrors Trump’s strategy in past races, such as the 2022 GOP Senate primary in Missouri. There, he endorsed “ERIC,” with both Eric Schmitt and Eric Greitens claiming Trump’s backing. Schmitt ultimately secured the nomination.
The South Carolina race tests Trump’s influence and the power of his endorsements within the Republican Party. Evette and Wilson’s contest reached a runoff after neither cleared a majority in the primary. Evette led the initial vote, with Wilson placing second among a competitive field that included notable figures like Reps. Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman.
Wilson received endorsements from Mace, Norman, and Sen. Ted Cruz, enhancing his campaign. The runoff has been intense, with both candidates engaging in personal attacks during debates.
Wilson emphasized his experience as attorney general, a combat veteran, and the state’s chief law enforcement official. Conversely, Evette, portraying herself as a Trump-endorsed outsider, critiqued Wilson as a career politician.
Sen. Tim Scott supports Wilson, aiding in fundraising efforts. Trump’s endorsement impact remains evident, especially in GOP primaries where his picks have succeeded in several key races.
However, Trump’s track record faced challenges. His endorsement of Rep. Randy Feenstra in Iowa was unsuccessful, indicating limits to his influence. Conversely, other Trump-backed candidates like Rep. Mike Collins in Georgia’s Senate race achieved victories.
The South Carolina Republican runoff winner is likely to have an advantage in the general election against Democrat Jermaine Johnson. The state has not elected a Democratic governor since 1998.
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