Full Breakdown
President Donald Trump Endorses Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette in South Carolina Gubernatorial Primary
5/30/2026, 8:19:44 PM
Trump’s Endorsement
On May 29 2026, President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social that he “completely and totally” backs Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette for South Carolina governor. He called her “a good friend, fighter, and WINNER” and added that she “will never let you down.” Trump also hinted that Gov. Henry McMaster’s son, Henry McMaster Jr., could be Evette’s running mate.
Data & Statistics
A Trafalgar Group poll of 1,125 likely Republican voters shows Evette leading with 19.9 % support, Wilson at 19.4 % and Reddy at 19 %; Norman, Mace, and Kimbrell trail at 15.9 %, 14.6 % and 2.3 % respectively. Early voting on May 26–27 produced 90,000 ballots.
Official Statements
Trump praised Evette’s early endorsement of his 2024 campaign and work with Gov. Henry McMaster. Evette thanked him on X, saying his “walk down that golden escalator” inspired her and that she will “never let you down.” Gov. McMaster said she has worked every day to help move South Carolina forward, and Attorney General Wilson said he has fought harder for President Trump’s agenda than anyone else.
Criticism & Opposition
Rep. Nancy Mace, a primary rival, said her push for transparency in the Justice Department’s Epstein-files investigation cost her the endorsement. She wrote, “If this is the price of an endorsement, I will never pay it,” while maintaining “enormous respect” for Trump. Her remarks show a GOP split between Trump-aligned candidates and those emphasizing accountability.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Trump’s speculation that Henry McMaster Jr. will join Evette as lieutenant-governor remains unconfirmed; her campaign has not announced a running mate. Poll figures differ slightly across outlets, and some reports omit the margin of error. Detailed voting records on the contested redistricting plan are not provided.
Why It Matters
Trump’s endorsement is seen as a decisive factor in a tight primary, shaping the ticket and influencing policy priorities such as tax cuts, border security, and election integrity. It also underscores intra-party tension over the Epstein-files issue and the president’s sway.
What’s Next
The June 9 primary will select the GOP nominee, who will face a Democratic opponent in the November 2026 general election. Candidates are expected to finalize running-mate choices and intensify outreach in the weeks before the vote.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Pam Evette is a good friend, fighter, and WINNER, and will be a terrific Governor of South Carolina.” — Donald Trump, President of the United States
- “Pam has my Complete and Total Endorsement — SHE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!” — Donald Trump, President of the United States
- “If this is the price of an endorsement, I will never pay it.” — Nancy Mace, U.S. Representative (SC-1)
- “Your walk down that golden escalator is what propelled me into politics.” — Pamela Evette, Lieutenant Governor of South Carolina
