News Summary
Alan Wilson, South Carolina’s Attorney General, has announced his candidacy for governor in the upcoming race. His campaign will focus on conservative values, economic issues, and governmental efficiency. Wilson aims to secure an endorsement from Donald Trump and highlights his experience in public service and law enforcement. As the state’s first open gubernatorial race in 16 years approaches, Wilson will compete against notable GOP candidates and leverage nearly $530,000 in campaign funds to support his efforts.
South Carolina – Alan Wilson, the current South Carolina Attorney General, has officially announced his candidacy for governor in the upcoming 2026 race. The launch event took place on June 23, 2025, at Hudson’s Smokehouse, a well-known barbecue restaurant located in Lexington, S.C. This election marks the first open gubernatorial race in South Carolina in 16 years, as the current Governor, Henry McMaster, is term-limited.
Wilson, a four-term Republican attorney general who has served in the role since 2010, anticipates a highly competitive GOP primary. Potential opponents within his party include notable figures such as State Senator Josh Kimbrell, Lieutenant Governor Pam Evette, and U.S. Representative Nancy Mace. The primary race is expected to attract considerable attention due to the significant number of candidates vying for the nomination.
One of Wilson’s strategic moves includes seeking an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, whose popularity remains strong in South Carolina. Capitalizing on this relationship could provide Wilson with an advantage heading into the primaries.
In his campaign launch, Wilson underscored his commitment to conservative values and presented his vision for South Carolina’s future. His key proposals include reforming the state’s education system, eliminating wasteful spending, and even suggesting the abolition of the state income tax. As part of his innovative approach to governance, Wilson plans to establish a “DOGE” (Department of Government Efficiency) to tackle fraud and waste within government operations.
Wilson’s campaign is built on his extensive experience in public service, having been involved in national issues such as lawsuits against the Biden administration and supporting Trump’s legal endeavors. He has also gained recognition for his high-profile prosecution of Alex Murdaugh in connection with the murders of Murdaugh’s wife and son. These experiences lend credence to Wilson’s claims of being prepared for the challenges of leading the state.
His tenure as attorney general is marked by significant accomplishments, including efforts to combat human trafficking and advocating for reforms in child protection laws. Beyond his professional achievements, Wilson has served nearly three decades in the Army National Guard, achieving the rank of colonel, which further enhances his leadership credentials.
During the campaign launch event, Wilson was introduced by his teenage son, Michael, and was flanked by family, including his father, Representative Joe Wilson. This familial support showcases a personal aspect of his campaign while also highlighting his ties to South Carolina’s political landscape.
Looking ahead, the official candidate filing for the 2026 elections is set to open in March 2026. As Wilson gears up for the race, his campaign reportedly boasts nearly $530,000 in cash from previous election cycles, providing him with substantial financial backing to compete effectively.
In addition to his proposed reforms, Wilson has emphasized that his campaign will prioritize economic issues and job creation. He has pledged to maintain a tough-on-crime stance, indicating that public safety will remain a cornerstone of his governance philosophy.
As South Carolina prepares for an election cycle that promises to be both competitive and transformative, Wilson’s entry into the race signals a notable shift in the state’s political landscape. With a focus on conservative principles and a commitment to efficiency in government, Wilson seeks to carve a path forward for the state’s future as he vies for the title of governor.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- SC Daily Gazette: Two GOP Candidates Officially Enter SC Governor’s Race
- Count on 2: Republican Alan Wilson Announces Bid for South Carolina Governor
- WBTW News: South Carolina Attorney General Announces Run for Governor
- Wikipedia: South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
