Former President Trump has given his endorsement to South Carolina’s Lieutenant Governor, Pamela Evette, as the state’s next governor. This endorsement arrives shortly after the legislature concluded a special session without voting on a new congressional map. The proposed map would have removed South Carolina’s single majority Black district, solidifying an all-Republican delegation. Evette supported this redistricting effort.

On Truth Social, Trump praised Evette as a longtime supporter and described her as “a good friend, fighter, and WINNER.” The endorsement also indicates Trump’s alignment with the state’s current governor, Henry McMaster, who is term-limited and supports Evette as his potential successor.

Trump indicated that he anticipates Evette choosing Henry McMaster Jr., the governor’s son, as her lieutenant governor. The Republican primary for governor has six contenders, including Representatives Ralph Norman and Nancy Mace, Attorney General Alan Wilson, and former executive Rom Reddy. Both the Democratic and Republican parties are scheduled to hold their primaries on June 9.

This story is still unfolding, and updates are expected. Reporting assistance for this article was provided by Emily Cochrane. Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs contributes to reports on various U.S. domestic issues such as natural disasters, protests, and criminal cases.