South Carolina Republican Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette has kicked off her bid for governor in 2026, highlighting several years of what she considers pushing outgoing Gov. Henry McMaster’s agenda, and an already-formed connection with President Donald Trump. The announcement came during a campaign event in Greenville on Monday, July 14, 2025, marking another significant entry into the competitive Republican primary race.
Lt. Governor Pamela Evette officially launched her campaign for governor on July 14, at Judson Mill in Greenville, surrounded by family, friends and supporters. The Travelers Rest native chose her home region for the kickoff event, emphasizing her deep roots in the Palmetto State.
Table of Contents
Campaign Platform and Key Priorities
Evette’s gubernatorial platform centers on several conservative priorities that align closely with the Trump administration’s agenda. She said her top priorities as governor would include expanding school choice, eliminating income taxes and enforcing Trump’s immigration agenda.
The lieutenant governor outlined specific policy goals during her announcement speech. She also addressed her priorities for day one in office, which include eliminating the state income tax, creating a South Carolina department of government efficiency, and rolling back government regulatory agencies.
Key Points Summary
Here are the major takeaways from Evette’s campaign launch:
- School Choice Expansion: Plans to broaden educational options for South Carolina families
- Tax Elimination: Committed to eliminating state income taxes entirely
- Government Efficiency: Proposes creating a Department of Government Efficiency modeled after Elon Musk’s approach
- Immigration Enforcement: Vows to continue Trump’s immigration policies at the state level
- Regulatory Reform: Promises to eliminate 10 regulations and reduce government bureaucracy
Trump Connection and Conservative Record
Evette emphasized her early support for President Trump and her role in advancing conservative policies as lieutenant governor. She also touted her continued and early support of Trump at her kickoff. This connection to Trump appears central to her campaign strategy in a state where the president maintains strong support.
As your Lieutenant Governor, I’ve been proud to stand with Governor McMaster every step of the way — fighting to ban sanctuary cities, defending law enforcement, protecting life, and delivering the largest income tax cut in state history. Her tenure has focused on traditional conservative priorities that resonate with Republican primary voters.
Regulatory and Social Policy Positions
The lieutenant governor has taken strong stances on social issues that appeal to the Republican base. She also pointed to barring transgender women from participating in women’s sports. This position aligns with broader conservative efforts across multiple states.
Evette also vowed in her speech to eliminate 10 regulations as part of her broader deregulation agenda. This approach reflects her business background and commitment to reducing government oversight.
Republican Primary Field
South Carolina Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette joined candidates Alan Wilson and Josh Kimbrell in the race for governor. The Republican primary field continues to take shape as the 2026 election approaches, with each candidate positioning themselves to inherit McMaster’s political legacy.
The competitive nature of the race suggests that Trump’s endorsement could play a crucial role in determining the eventual nominee. Evette’s early emphasis on her Trump connections indicates she views this relationship as a key differentiator.
Government Efficiency Initiative
Evette’s campaign announcement on Monday signaled she would prioritize expanding school choice, eliminating income taxes, and creating an Elon Musk-style South Carolina Department of Government Efficiency should she become the governor. This proposal reflects current trends in Republican governance focused on streamlining government operations.
The efficiency department concept has gained traction among conservative politicians nationwide, with Evette becoming one of the first gubernatorial candidates to formally propose such an initiative at the state level.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Evette’s campaign launch represents a significant moment in South Carolina’s political landscape as Republicans prepare for life after McMaster’s tenure. Her emphasis on continuity with current policies while promising reform could appeal to voters seeking stability with progress.
The lieutenant governor’s business background and administrative experience position her as a potentially formidable candidate in the Republican primary. Her ability to maintain Trump’s support while building broader coalitions will likely determine her success in the crowded field.
The campaign will test whether Evette can translate her role as lieutenant governor into executive-level support from South Carolina Republicans. Her platform combines traditional conservative priorities with modern efficiency initiatives, potentially appealing to different segments of the party base.
What are your thoughts on Pamela Evette’s campaign platform and her chances in the 2026 Republican primary? Share your insights in the comments below as South Carolina’s political landscape continues to evolve.