South Carolina’s Republican Primary Delivers Stunning Upset Despite Dual Trump Backing

Clear Facts

• South Carolina Lieutenant Governor Pam Evette, endorsed by President Trump, lost decisively to Attorney General Alan Wilson in the Republican gubernatorial primary
• Wilson won with approximately 54% of the vote compared to Evette’s 40%, despite both candidates receiving Trump endorsements
• Wilson received Trump’s endorsement first in April 2024, while Evette secured her endorsement just days before the primary election

South Carolina’s Republican gubernatorial primary delivered an unexpected outcome Tuesday night as Attorney General Alan Wilson soundly defeated Lieutenant Governor Pam Evette, despite both candidates carrying endorsements from President Donald Trump.

Wilson secured a commanding victory with roughly 54% of the vote compared to Evette’s 40%, according to preliminary results. The race presented a unique challenge for South Carolina Republicans, who found themselves choosing between two Trump-backed candidates.

PAM EVETTE: “I’m very much different than Governor McMaster…I have a little bit different style…I’m a bit more bullish…” @PamelaEvette #scpol #scgov pic.twitter.com/cv9AuVwkqM

— Jackson Gosnell (@jacksongosnell) June 23, 2026

Alan Wilson: “If you’re gonna be a leader, you gotta own it all.” @AGAlanWilson pic.twitter.com/MW7OROOH2j

— Jackson Gosnell (@jacksongosnell) June 23, 2026

It’s Election Day in South Carolina. 🇺🇸

Get out and VOTE for @AGAlanWilson.

Alan is a proven conservative fighter who spent years defending the Constitution as South Carolina’s Attorney General.

He knows what it takes to fight for South Carolina’s families, values, and… pic.twitter.com/yr2ykzxqp8

— Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) June 23, 2026

The timing of the endorsements proved crucial. Wilson received President Trump’s support in April 2024, more than a year before the primary.

Evette secured her Trump endorsement just days before voters went to the polls, raising questions about the strategic timing and impact of last-minute political backing.

“MAGA and America First all the way,” Wilson declared in his victory speech, emphasizing his commitment to the conservative movement that has reshaped the Republican Party.

The attorney general’s campaign focused heavily on his record of defending conservative values and South Carolina’s interests in court. Wilson has built a reputation as a fierce advocate for state sovereignty and traditional American principles during his tenure as the state’s top law enforcement officer.

Evette’s campaign highlighted her experience serving alongside Governor Henry McMaster and her role in economic development initiatives. Despite her position as lieutenant governor and gubernatorial succession protocol, voters opted for Wilson’s proven track record in the attorney general’s office.

The dual endorsement scenario created an unusual dynamic in the race. Political analysts noted that when Trump endorses multiple candidates in the same race, the endorsement’s impact becomes diluted, forcing voters to evaluate candidates on their individual merits rather than simply following the Trump seal of approval.

Wilson will now face the Democratic nominee in the general election. South Carolina has maintained Republican control of the governor’s mansion for years, and Wilson enters the general election as the heavy favorite in the deep-red state.

The primary results demonstrate that even in an era of personality-driven politics, voters still carefully weigh candidates’ records, experience, and timing of political support. Wilson’s early Trump endorsement and established conservative credentials proved more persuasive than Evette’s late-breaking presidential backing.

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