Story perspectives

McMaster Jr. Declines Lt. Gov Slot, Backs Evette

6/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

After President Donald Trump suggested he would be the ticket’s lieutenant-governor, Henry McMaster Jr. announced on June 5 2026 that he will not run as lieutenant governor with South Carolina Gov. candidate Pamela Evette.
He posted the statement on X, called the mention humbling, thanked supporters, and pledged his backing for Evette as a fantastic governor.
Pamela Evette has not confirmed a running mate and said she will decide after the primary.

History

Historical Context

Donald Trump announced Indiana Governor Mike Pence as his vice-presidential pick on July 15, 2016, cementing a ticket that reshaped Republican strategy by pairing a national outsider with a conservative governor. The 2016 model resurfaced in June 2026 when South Carolina GOP leader Henry McMaster Jr. rejected a lieutenant-governor slot with Pamela Evette after Trump floated a similar endorsement, highlighting the lasting influence of high-profile running-mate choices.

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Story summary

After President Donald Trump suggested he would be the ticket’s lieutenant-governor, Henry McMaster Jr. announced on June 5 2026 that he will not run as lieutenant governor with South Carolina Gov. candidate Pamela Evette.
He posted the statement on X, called the mention humbling, thanked supporters, and pledged his backing for Evette as a fantastic governor.
Pamela Evette has not confirmed a running mate and said she will decide after the primary.

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