Polling data reveals a significant level of uncertainty among South Carolina voters regarding their party’s gubernatorial nominees. Recent findings from the South Carolina Policy Council, gathered between January 24 and February 1, show that 43% of Republican voters and a striking 67% of Democratic voters remain undecided on their preferred candidates.
Democratic Race Overview
Currently, the Democratic nomination appears to be a contest primarily between State Representative Jermaine Johnson and attorney Mullins McLeod, who previously chaired the Charleston County Democratic Party. Johnson leads McLeod by a considerable margin, garnering 25% support compared to McLeod’s 8%.
“Voters are responding enthusiastically to Jermaine’s message, leadership, and vision for South Carolina,” stated Jacob Barr, Johnson’s campaign manager. In contrast, McLeod expressed indifference to the poll results, asserting, “The only poll that matters is Election Day.”
This early stage in the campaign allows candidates to establish their identities and policies, as noted by Michael Burris, CEO of the South Carolina Policy Council. He remarked, “It’s good that there is no clear frontrunner. It makes the candidates still have to distinguish themselves from one another.”
Republican Contest Dynamics
On the Republican side, the field remains competitive, with five candidates vying for the nomination. Among those who have made a decision, U.S. Representative Nancy Mace holds a lead, receiving 18% support. Both Lt. Governor Pamela Evette and Attorney General Alan Wilson each have 12% backing. Notably, 43% of Republicans are still undecided on their choice.
The polling results indicate a fluctuating Republican contest. A mid-January poll from the Trafalgar Group had Evette ahead of Wilson by two percentage points, while a late January survey from Palmetto Promise showed Wilson with a 6.5-point advantage. Early January findings from Mace’s campaign indicated she had a four-point lead.
The upcoming election will determine the successor to Governor Henry McMaster, who is term-limited after completing two terms. As the campaign unfolds, candidates will focus on refining their messages to appeal to undecided voters in a state where both parties are still searching for clarity on their leadership choices.
