Trump Shifts Endorsement Strategy in South Carolina After Iowa Loss
President Donald Trump is adjusting his endorsement strategy in South Carolina's gubernatorial runoff, praising both Republican contenders rather than sticking solely with his initial pick. The shift comes after a series of mixed results for Trump-backed candidates nationwide, including a high-profile loss in Iowa where businessman Zach Lahn defeated Trump-endorsed U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra.
What is Trump's new strategy in the South Carolina runoff?
Heading into the June 23rd runoff, Trump took to Truth Social to praise both Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette and state Attorney General Alan Wilson. He previously gave Evette his complete endorsement before the June 9th primary.
Both have had amazing careers, and have been with me from the beginning. They are MAGA and America First all the way!
The move represents a strategic hedge for the president. By backing both candidates, Trump ensures he aligns with the eventual winner, regardless of the runoff outcome.
Evette, who finished first in the initial primary, remains confident. She posted on social media that she was proud to come in first as Trump's endorsed candidate and looks forward to doing it again. Wilson, however, also claimed the endorsement. He quickly issued a news release highlighting his legal efforts to support Trump's policies, including briefs on restricting birthright citizenship.
How did Iowans respond to Trump's governor endorsement?
Iowa voters demonstrated their independence earlier this month. Trump endorsed U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra on the same day he backed Evette. Despite the presidential backing, Feenstra lost the Republican gubernatorial primary to businessman Zach Lahn.
The result highlights a growing trend in 2026. While the MAGA movement remains a powerful force, conservative voters are willing to chart their own course when they believe another candidate better represents their values and local interests.
Are Trump endorsements still the golden ticket?
The 2026 primary cycle shows Trump's endorsement record is a mixed bag. In some races, his backing virtually guarantees a win. In others, his preferred candidates struggle against well-funded opponents or local grassroots movements.
Successes include biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy in Ohio and U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville in Alabama. Both secured early endorsements and dominated their primaries. In Oklahoma, former state Sen. Mike Mazzei also advanced to an Aug. 25 runoff with Trump's support.
However, the losses are turning heads. In Georgia, billionaire healthcare tycoon Rick Jackson used more than $100 million of his personal fortune to defeat Trump's pick, Lt. Gov. Burt Jones. Add the Iowa loss to Feenstra, and it is clear that Trump's endorsement does not always close the deal.
Evette has previously called Trump's endorsement a golden ticket for Republicans seeking office in South Carolina. The runoff will test if that ticket still carries the same weight.
Has Trump issued double endorsements before?
This is not the first time Trump has doubled down in a primary. Just before a 2022 U.S. Senate primary in Missouri, Trump endorsed ERIC. Both candidates in that race were named Eric, former Gov. Eric Greitens and Attorney General Eric Schmitt. Both claimed the endorsement, and Schmitt went on to win the nomination and the office.
In Arizona, Trump has been endorsing candidates for governor over the past two years. In late 2024, he backed housing developer Karrin Taylor Robson. That choice angered some of his biggest allies in the state. Then in April 2025, Trump said he was also backing U.S. Rep. Andy Biggs.
What role are other leaders playing in the South Carolina runoff?
While Trump hedges his bets, other prominent Republicans are picking sides. Moments after Trump's double-endorsement post, Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina announced he is backing Wilson.
Scott predicted on social media that Wilson will lead with humility, courage, and an optimistic vision for the state. A person familiar with Scott's thinking told the Associated Press that the senator had been making calls for Wilson, helping fundraise, and encouraging Trump to back his candidacy.
Evette's campaign also lost a potential boost when Henry McMaster Jr., the son of the current governor, said he would not be considered as her running mate. Trump had previously cited McMaster as a big added plus for Evette's campaign.
Will conservative voters follow Trump's lead or choose their own path?
Conservative voters across the country are proving they will evaluate candidates on their own merits. While Trump's endorsement remains highly sought after, local factors like funding, grassroots support, and policy records are driving outcomes. Iowans saw something in Zach Lahn that outweighed a presidential nod. South Carolina voters will make their own determination on June 23rd.
