By PSA Newsroom Staff
Columbia, S.C. — In what is expected to be one of the state’s most competitive Republican primaries in years, AG Wilson, made the announcement in June 2025 at Hudson’s Smokehouse in Lexington County. This marked Wilson as one of the first candidates to enter the race for an open governor’s seat, as Gov. Henry McMaster is term-limited and cannot run again.
Wilson, a four-term Republican who has served as the state’s chief legal officer since 2011, brings nearly 15 years of experience as attorney general and a long record of public service to his campaign. During the kickoff, he highlighted his legal and military background, emphasizing his commitment to conservative principles and leadership “ready on day one.”
Campaign Priorities and Platform
In speeches and interviews, Wilson has outlined key elements of his proposed agenda if elected governor:
• Fiscal Policy: He has pledged to work toward eliminating South Carolina’s state income tax and reducing wasteful government spending part of a broader conservative fiscal agenda.
• Public Safety: Wilson positions himself as a law-and-order candidate, stressing his prosecutorial background and endorsements from law enforcement leaders. He has touted the support of more than 20 county sheriffs statewide, including full endorsement sweeps in parts of the Lowcountry.
• Immigration and Social Issues: Aligning with national Republican positions, Wilson supports stricter enforcement of immigration laws. He also takes firm stances on cultural issues such as transgender participation in women’s sports.
• Judicial Reform: A long-time advocate for changes to South Carolina’s judicial selection system, he argues that greater executive input would improve accountability in sentencing and public safety outcomes.
Campaign Organization and Support
Wilson has been building a statewide campaign infrastructure. He announced members of his “Team Wilson” steering committee in August 2025 and has earned support from veterans groups, which organized a statewide coalition backing his bid.
Financially, Wilson’s campaign has shown strength: by early October 2025, he reported more than $1.3 million on hand in campaign funds, placing him among the well-funded GOP contenders.
Primary Field and Competition
The 2026 Republican gubernatorial primary is shaping up to be competitive. In addition to Wilson, other candidates include state Sen. Josh Kimbrell and likely entrants such as Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, and others. Debates are scheduled to be broadcast across multiple state media markets, giving voters the opportunity to hear directly from the candidates.
Controversies and Campaign Tensions
Wilson’s campaign has not been without conflict. Rival campaigns have traded criticisms. For example, Rep. Nancy Mace’s campaign publicly condemned Wilson in August 2025 over an attack on a staffer, illustrating early tensions within the GOP field.
Outlook
With the Republican primary likely to determine the next governor in a heavily GOP state, Wilson’s extensive experience as attorney general and his early organization efforts position him as a formidable contender. As the campaign progresses toward the March 2026 filing deadline and beyond, fundraising, endorsements, and voter engagement will play key roles in shaping the outcome.
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