Bill Rhyne Wins Spartanburg County Sheriff GOP Runoff After Clevenger Concedes

In Spartanburg County, Bill Rhyne has won the Republican primary runoff for sheriff, leading to a concession from Rusty Clevenger. Both candidates have extensive law enforcement backgrounds, with Rhyne emphasizing change and community engagement from his years with the South Carolina Highway Patrol, and Clevenger highlighting his experience as county coroner and former detective. The election follows the resignation of former Sheriff Chuck Wright amid investigations, and with no Democratic candidate filed, Rhyne is expected to run unopposed in the November special election. Voter turnout was strong, with nearly 29,000 ballots cast in the runoff, and early voting showing about 4,000 participants. Both candidates addressed issues such as deputy recruitment, jail overcrowding, and traffic safety during their campaigns, with Clevenger pledging accountability and Rhyne focusing on the county's future. Clevenger has expressed willingness to work collaboratively with Rhyne moving forward to benefit the community.