On Friday, President Trump made the rare decision to endorse both candidates in the Republican runoff for South Carolina governor. This came after he initially supported one of them.
President Trump first endorsed Pamela Evette, the lieutenant governor of South Carolina, in late May. His endorsement has been a significant factor in Republican races for both Senate and House primaries this year.
However, in an unusual move, he backed both runoff candidates in South Carolina’s Republican primary for governor. This decision reflects mixed results he has faced in this year’s midterm governor races.
Initially, Trump supported Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette to become the next governor, but she could not avoid a runoff. On Truth Social, the president announced he would also support her opponent, Alan Wilson, the state’s attorney general for 15 years.
“I can’t hurt one of them by only Endorsing the other, so, therefore, I am going to Endorse, for Governor of South Carolina, both Pam Evette and Alan Wilson!” Trump stated, adding, “With either one, you can’t go wrong.”
Shortly after Trump’s post, Senator Tim Scott, a Republican from South Carolina, endorsed Alan Wilson. This further indicated growing support for Wilson’s candidacy.
Wilson had been leading Ms. Evette in several polls before Tuesday’s runoff. Trump’s dual endorsement might further solidify his lead.