South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson (R) is projected to defeat Democratic state Rep. Jermaine Johnson in the state's governor's race, according to Decision Desk HQ (DDHQ). With 84% of the vote counted as of Tuesday night, Wilson led by nearly 7 points, roughly 52% to 47%.
Wilson, who has served as the Palmetto State's top prosecutor since 2011, will succeed term-limited Gov. Henry McMaster (R), ensuring Republicans retain the governor's mansion for at least another four years. The GOP has held that office since 2003, when Mark Sanford took over; the last Democratic governor was elected in 1998.
Wilson emerged from a crowded primary field that included Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette and GOP Reps. Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman. He finished second to Evette in the June primary but won a runoff decisively, capturing about 69% of the vote. President Trump initially backed Evette but later endorsed both candidates ahead of the runoff. Wilson also received support from GOP Sens. Tim Scott (S.C.) and Ted Cruz (Texas).
Heading into Election Day, DDHQ gave Wilson a 77% chance of winning. His campaign centered on tax relief, government efficiency, and infrastructure improvements. He proposed eliminating the state income tax and conducting audits of state agencies to root out wasteful spending.
Johnson, a state lawmaker representing the Columbia area, campaigned on raising wages, expanding healthcare access, and making housing more affordable. The two sparred over taxes and Medicaid during an October debate. Wilson opposed expanding Medicaid, citing affordability concerns, while Johnson supported the expansion.
Wilson, a colonel in the South Carolina Army National Guard, became the longest-serving attorney general in state history. His victory comes as other states see competitive gubernatorial races, such as Wisconsin's historic outcome and Colorado's transition.
With Wilson's win, Republicans maintain their hold on a key Southern state, while Democrats look to other battlegrounds like Georgia's flipped governor's office.
