POLITICS

McMaster Endorses Evette, Shaping South Carolina Governor Race

PUBLISHED Feb 12, 2026, 11:47 AM ET

Read, Watch or Listen

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 8

Center 100%

Sources: 8

COLUMBIA, S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster endorsed Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette Thursday, appearing with her at a press conference after a campaign-released video and urging supporters to back her in the June 9 Republican primary. McMaster praised Evette’s government experience and partnership, saying she has been his “eyes and ears” and urging voters to “keep winning.” Evette faces Republican rivals including Rep. Nancy Mace, Rep. Ralph Norman and Attorney General Alan Wilson, with multiple Democrats also running. The endorsement follows McMaster’s longstanding alignment with former President Donald Trump and may influence primary dynamics. Based on 6 articles reviewed and research.

By Michael Grant | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

2016: McMaster publicly aligned early with Donald Trump, establishing a national relationship.
Early 2026: Pamela Evette announced a gubernatorial campaign to succeed McMaster.
Feb. 12, 2026: Evette’s campaign confirmed McMaster’s endorsement and held a Columbia event.
Feb. 12–13, 2026: Campaign released a video from McMaster and staged a joint press conference.
June 9, 2026: South Carolina Republican primary scheduled, with a possible runoff two weeks later.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 8
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 8

Who Benefited

Gov. Henry McMaster and Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, Evette’s campaign, allied Republican donors and establishment operatives benefited from consolidated institutional support and increased visibility ahead of the June 9 primary.

Who Impacted

Evette’s Republican primary opponents — including Reps. Nancy Mace, Ralph Norman, and Attorney General Alan Wilson — faced a potential loss of momentum, donor attention, and establishment endorsements following McMaster’s backing.

Media Bias