State Representative Jermaine Johnson won South Carolina’s Democratic primary for governor on Tuesday, June 9, securing 58.7 percent of the vote and advancing to the general election in a state that hasn’t elected a Democratic governor since 2003.
Johnson, who represents South Carolina’s 52nd House district covering parts of Richland and Kershaw counties near Columbia, defeated two other Democratic candidates: businessman Billy Webster, who received 30.4 percent, and attorney Mullins McLeod, who garnered 10.9 percent, according to the Associated Press.
Johnson has served in the South Carolina House of Representatives since 2014, holding seats across multiple districts over the past decade. His campaign platform focuses on ending the state income tax, lowering property taxes, building affordable housing, and improving mental health access. He is also the owner of Dream Team Consulting Firm and has served on the Richland County Commission.
The Democratic victory sets the stage for a challenging general election on November 3, 2026. Governor Henry McMaster, a Republican, is barred by term limits from seeking another term, making this the first open gubernatorial race in South Carolina in a decade. On the Republican side, Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette and Attorney General Alan Wilson advanced to a runoff after neither secured 50 percent in the primary, with Evette receiving Trump’s endorsement.
Johnson will face a significant political headwind in the general election. South Carolina has not elected a Democratic governor in over two decades, and the state leans heavily Republican in statewide contests. However, his decisive primary win—clearing 50 percent of the vote outright—demonstrates strong support within the Democratic base and suggests he enters the general election as a unified party nominee.
Sources
- WBTV — Primary results showing Johnson’s 58.7% victory, vote totals for all candidates, and Johnson’s legislative history since 2014
- Associated Press — Official race call and final vote percentages for all three Democratic candidates
- NBC News — Confirmation that South Carolina has not elected a Democratic governor since 2003 and context on McMaster’s term limits
