POLITICS

Six GOP candidates debate in Charleston ahead of primary

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Charleston: Six Republican candidates — Nancy Mace, Alan Wilson, Pamela Evette, Ralph Norman, Rom Reddy and Josh Kimbrell — debated at the College of Charleston's Sottile Theatre on Tuesday, April 21, in the second of four GOP gubernatorial debates before the statewide primary scheduled for June 9. Broadcasters aired the forum and journalists posed questions on abortion and data center policy. Candidates highlighted policy differences: Rep. Ralph Norman said he would sign a conception-to-birth abortion ban without exceptions, while Rep. Nancy Mace supported a hypothetical one-year moratorium on new data centers. Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette and Attorney General Alan Wilson exchanged on executive-branch roles; party chairman Drew McKissick cited 500–600,000 likely primary voters and debates continue ahead of June 9.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Early April: First GOP gubernatorial debate held in Newberry.
21st April (Tuesday): Second GOP debate at the College of Charleston's Sottile Theatre.
21st April: A state Senate subcommittee advances a strict abortion ban measure to the floor.
Late April–May: Remaining debates in the series take place ahead of the primary.
9th June: Statewide Republican primary for governor scheduled.

Why This Matters to You

These debates shape the future of your state. The candidates' views on abortion and data center policy could impact your rights and community. Watch the remaining debates to understand their positions better.

The Bottom Line

The GOP gubernatorial race is heating up. Candidates are making their stances clear, from abortion to data centers. Remember to vote on June 9. Send this to someone who values staying informed about local politics.