Trump-backed Pamela Evette and Alan Wilson head to runoff in South Carolina GOP governor race

South Carolina's Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette and Attorney General Alan Wilson will proceed to a runoff election for the Republican nomination for governor, following the state's primary election on June 9, 2026. Both candidates received endorsements from former President Donald Trump. The winner of this Republican primary is considered the favorite to win the general election in the conservative-leaning state. This outcome also signals a significant defeat for Representative Nancy Mace, whose primary challenge to Evette did not succeed in advancing her to the runoff. The Democratic party is reportedly aiming to capitalize on progressive enthusiasm to gain ground in the upcoming general election.