Rep. Ralph Norman Announces South Carolina Governor Candidacy

U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) has officially launched his campaign for governor of South Carolina, aiming to succeed the term-limited Gov. Henry McMaster. A member of the ultra-conservative House Freedom Caucus, Norman emphasizes the need to combat corruption in Columbia and seeks improvements in the state's roads and schools, along with advocating for term limits for state legislators. He positions himself as a business leader with deep roots in South Carolina, having grown his family’s construction and real estate business before entering politics. Norman has received endorsements from prominent Republicans, including former Governor Nikki Haley, former Senator Jim DeMint, and former Trump White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, although President Trump’s endorsement remains uncertain. Other Republicans, such as Attorney General Alan Wilson, state Sen. Josh Kimbrell, and Rep. Nancy Mace, are also vying for the Republican nomination. The winner of the Republican primary is widely expected to be the favorite in the general election.