President Donald Trump recently made a strategic move by endorsing both candidates in the Republican gubernatorial runoff in South Carolina. This decision comes as the runoff approaches, where Attorney General Alan Wilson and Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette are competing for the GOP nomination. Trump expressed his support for both candidates on Truth Social, stating, “I can’t hurt one of them by only endorsing the other, so, therefore, I am going to endorse, for Governor of South Carolina, both Pam Evette and Alan Wilson!”
This endorsement highlights Trump’s influence on the Republican Party. While he previously backed Evette, who is also supported by the current governor, Henry McMaster, Trump’s support for Wilson seems a precautionary measure to maintain his political sway. The race had been a significant test of his impact on the GOP’s nomination process.
Alan Wilson, South Carolina’s attorney general, declared his candidacy accompanied by his family on June 23, 2025. This move was part of a broader political tug-of-war within the Republican Party, especially given Trump’s earlier dual endorsements, like the one in the Arizona Congressional District primary.
In the primary election, Evette ranked highest in a field that included Reps. Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman, and businessman Rom Reddy. With no candidate securing a majority, Evette and Wilson moved forward to the runoff. After not making it to the runoff, both Mace and Norman endorsed Wilson, who also gained support from Senator Ted Cruz.
Tensions between Evette and Wilson have flared, as evidenced by personal attacks during debates. Wilson has emphasized his credentials as attorney general, while Evette positions herself as an outsider with Trump’s backing.
The stakes are high, as South Carolina hasn’t seen a Democrat win the governor’s office in 28 years. Whoever prevails in the GOP runoff will likely face a competitive general election against Democratic state representative Jermaine Johnson.
Trump’s endorsement power has substantially influenced GOP primaries in recent months. However, his support wasn’t enough for Randy Feenstra in Iowa; Zach Lahn, a businessman and political strategist, narrowly won that primary, supported by notable conservative groups.
Trump’s credibility was restored when Evette topped the gubernatorial primary, and Trump-ally Senator Lindsey Graham secured his nomination without a runoff. Moreover, Trump-endorsed candidates had mixed results in Alabama and Georgia, emphasizing the complex dynamics of endorsements within the Republican field.
In Georgia, despite Trump’s backing of Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, he was defeated by Rick Jackson in the gubernatorial runoff. Jackson’s significant campaign spending and strategy to align closely with Trump played a pivotal role in his victory.
The political landscape remains dynamic as Trump’s influence continues to impact Republican candidates ahead of upcoming elections.