Full Breakdown
South Carolina Special Elections: John Lastinger Wins House District 88 Seat
12/26/2025, 10:28:51 PM
Core Event: Lastinger Secures Seat After May's Resignation
Republican John Lastinger has won the special election for South Carolina's House District 88, a seat vacated by former State Representative RJ May, who resigned after pleading guilty to distributing child sexual abuse material. Lastinger, a pastor, received 1,672 votes, defeating Democrat Joseph "Chuck" Hightower, a retired Army Colonel, who garnered 1,010 votes. The election took place on December 23, 2025, with Lastinger securing 62% of the total votes cast.
Background: RJ May's Controversial Resignation
RJ May, a founding member of the South Carolina Freedom Caucus, resigned in August 2025 after being indicted on multiple counts related to child sexual abuse material. He pleaded guilty to five counts and faces a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for January 14, 2026. The Freedom Caucus accepted May's resignation but criticized the state House for not pursuing expulsion, labeling the situation an "ugly chapter" for the chamber.
Voter Turnout and Election Dynamics
The special election saw low voter turnout, with only 11% of registered voters in Lexington County participating. Lastinger's victory comes after he narrowly won the GOP primary with 52% of the vote against no primary challenger for Hightower. The other two special elections held on the same day also featured Republican candidates, with write-in campaigns from Democrats receiving notable support.
Official Statements & Responses
The South Carolina Freedom Caucus expressed relief at May's resignation but emphasized that the House should have acted to expel him. U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling described May's actions as representing "some of the most depraved and exploitative conduct we investigate." Lastinger, who campaigned on conservative values, including anti-abortion policies and Second Amendment rights, will serve the remainder of May's term until November 2026, when he must seek re-election.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Lastinger's election point to the circumstances surrounding May's resignation as a significant concern. The Freedom Caucus's response to May's actions has been scrutinized, with some arguing that the organization should have taken stronger measures against him prior to his resignation.
What's Next: Upcoming Elections
Another special election is scheduled for January 6, 2026, in Dorchester County, where Republican Greg Ford will face Democrat Sonja Ogletree-Satani. Following this election, the 2026 legislative session will commence with all 170 Statehouse seats filled.
Verbatim Quotes
- “some of the most depraved and exploitative conduct we investigate.” — Bryan Stirling, U.S. Attorney
In summary, John Lastinger's election to House District 88 marks a continuation of Republican dominance in South Carolina, following a tumultuous period marked by RJ May's criminal charges and resignation.
