News Summary
Alan Wilson, the attorney general of South Carolina, is set to launch his campaign for the gubernatorial race in a rally. His announcement comes as multiple Republican candidates consider running as the state’s political landscape heats up. Wilson’s campaign is expected to emphasize his record as attorney general and his alignment with conservative values amid a competitive primary environment.
South Carolina – Alan Wilson, the current attorney general of South Carolina and a Republican, is poised to launch his campaign for the 2026 gubernatorial race. Sources familiar with Wilson’s plans have indicated that he will officially announce his candidacy at a rally on Monday. This announcement is expected to set the stage for a competitive primary among Republicans, as the state’s political landscape is heating up.
With the official filing period for South Carolina’s 2026 elections not opening until March, the timing of Wilson’s announcement is strategic. Other potential Republican candidates for the governorship have also expressed interest in running, including U.S. Representative Nancy Mace and Lieutenant Governor Pam Evette. Mace has confirmed that she is seriously considering a bid for governor, while Evette has also hinted at her interest in the race. All three of these candidates have previously supported former President Donald Trump, whose influence on the upcoming gubernatorial race remains uncertain but potentially significant due to his popularity among South Carolina Republicans.
In 2016, Trump won the South Carolina GOP primary, an event that played a crucial role in solidifying his nomination for the presidency. His involvement in state politics continued into 2018 when he supported then-Governor Henry McMaster, leading McMaster to secure a primary runoff victory. Wilson has been a supporter of Trump not only by endorsing him in previous elections but also by participating actively in challenges against federal policies and legal actions against the Democratic administration.
Wilson’s campaign will likely emphasize his record as attorney general, a position he has held since 2010. During his tenure, he has led various initiatives aimed at supporting GOP goals and addressing social issues. His legal actions include lawsuits against Democratic presidents and advocating for anti-pornography legislation, reflecting his conservative values. As attorney general, Wilson has been involved in high-profile cases, including being highlighted nationally for his prosecution of Alex Murdaugh, who was convicted of murdering his wife and son in a case that garnered significant media attention.
In addition to his legal career, Wilson has served nearly three decades in the Army National Guard, currently holding the rank of colonel. He is the son of Representative Joe Wilson, a long-serving congressman for South Carolina, which may enhance his visibility and appeal among voters. Wilson resides in Lexington, South Carolina, with his wife and two children.
As 2026 approaches, the Republican primary is expected to be particularly fierce, especially with Governor McMaster term-limited and unable to seek re-election. The competition among Republican candidates is reflective of South Carolina’s historical dominance in statewide-elected positions and the intense rivalries that come with it. Issues such as Wilson’s defense of South Carolina’s restrictive abortion law, which prohibits abortions around six weeks after conception, may further energize the primary electorate.
Wilson’s prior involvement in state ethics matters, particularly his recusal from a probe concerning lawmakers due to a conflict of interest, may also play a role in the public’s perception of his candidacy. As he formally enters the race, the evolving dynamics of support from Trump and responses to emerging competitors will remain critical as the primary date nears.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- The State
- Wikipedia: South Carolina Gubernatorial elections
- WRDW
- Google Search: Alan Wilson South Carolina
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Republican Party
- WPDE
- Google News: South Carolina Politics
- WCCB Charlotte
