South Carolina voters are heading to the polls Tuesday to fill two open House seats, after the Republican incumbents failed in their attempts to move up the political ladder. The races in the 1st and 3rd Districts are drawing attention as the state’s delegation undergoes a shakeup.
In the 1st District, Rep. Nancy Mace vacated her seat to run for governor, but her campaign fell short. Similarly, in the 3rd District, Rep. Russell Fry sought the governorship and also made a bid for the Senate following the death of former Sen. Lindsey Graham. Fry lost a special primary to Graham’s sister, Sen. Darline Graham (R), who now holds the seat.
With both incumbents out, the open seats have sparked competitive primaries and general election battles. The 1st District, which includes the Charleston area, has been a swing district in recent cycles, while the 3rd District, covering the Upstate, is solidly Republican.
All other members of South Carolina’s seven-member House delegation are running for reelection, meaning the state could see a largely unchanged delegation aside from the two new members.
Polls closed at 7 p.m. EST, and results are being tabulated. The governor’s race is also on the ballot, with Republican nominee Mark Wilson facing Democrat Sarah Johnson, adding to the political stakes in the state.
For a broader look at how these races fit into the national picture, North Carolina’s House races are also being watched closely, as both states could influence the balance of power in Congress.
Decision Desk HQ is providing live results below, with updates as votes are counted.
