South Carolina’s 2026 Republican and Democratic primaries: Key races to watch in Tuesday’s turnout

South Carolina’s 2026 primaries on Tuesday will determine which candidates advance in tightly contested races for governor and other statewide offices, where winning requires a majority to avoid a June 23 runoff. In the Republican governor’s race, Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette has gained momentum after Donald Trump endorsed her on May 29, though she faces competition from two members of Congress, the state attorney general, and a businessman. State Sen. Josh Kimbrell dropped out June 3 but remains on the ballot, while Evette has participated in only one debate and struggled with basic state-government knowledge during testimony. Democrats are vying for a chance to challenge the eventual Republican nominee in a state that has not elected a Democratic governor since 1998. The three candidates—a state lawmaker, a Charleston attorney, and a former Bojangles CEO—compete for support amid low expectations. Early voting data shows Democrats cast 64% of ballots in the first six days, signaling strong turnout. Beyond the governor’s race, constitutional offices are also on the ballot, including attorney general, where Alan Wilson currently holds the post but faces challengers. South Carolina’s election laws guarantee a new attorney general next year, though the identity of the successor remains uncertain. The primary’s outcome hinges on whether any candidate secures over 50% of the vote, forcing a runoff if no one meets the threshold. Evette’s Trump endorsement may not be enough to clear the field entirely, while Democrats grapple with the challenge of breaking through in a Republican-leaning state. Statewide races for other offices, including lieutenant governor and comptroller, will also shape South Carolina’s political landscape. The results will determine which candidates proceed to a potential second round of voting, with the governor’s race drawing the most attention.