South Carolina Will Elect New Attorney General
Voters will head to the polls on November 3, 2026, to select the state’s next top law enforcement official.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Elections
Live Poll
Should the rule of law be applied equally regardless of political affiliation or economic influence?
South Carolina will elect a new attorney general on November 3, 2026, as the incumbent Alan Wilson steps aside to pursue a gubernatorial campaign. Candidates David Stumbo and Richard Hricik are competing to fill the position.
Why it matters
The election marks a significant change for the office, which has been held by Alan Wilson since 2011. This race will determine who leads the state agency responsible for overseeing legal affairs in South Carolina.
The attorney general's office employs 300 staff members, including 90 attorneys, to manage state legal proceedings. This election follows a 30-year period during which the office has remained under non-Democratic control.
The players
Alan Wilson
He is the incumbent attorney general of South Carolina who has held the office since 2011 and is now running for governor.
David Stumbo
He is the Republican candidate for attorney general and currently serves as the solicitor for the 8th Judicial Circuit.
Richard Hricik
He is a candidate for attorney general and a practicing attorney based in the Charleston area.
The details
David Stumbo, currently the solicitor for the 8th Judicial Circuit, secured his spot by winning the Republican primary runoff on June 23, 2026. His opponent, Charleston-area attorney Richard Hricik, advanced to the general election after running unopposed in the primary.
Timeline
Alan Wilson began his term as attorney general in 2011.
David Stumbo won the Republican primary runoff on June 23, 2026.
Early voting for the election will be available from October 19 to October 31, 2026.
The general election for attorney general will take place on November 3, 2026.
Political Context
Opponents often point to the long-standing partisan dominance of this office, arguing that the selection process needs more competitive balance. Conversely, supporters emphasize the consistency of the state’s legal direction over the past three decades as a sign of institutional stability.
The incoming attorney general will directly oversee the 300-person agency that manages legal matters affecting state residents. Voters participating in this election will help shape the state’s legal priorities for the next term.
The takeaway
Voters should be aware that early voting periods are a critical window for participation before the final November 3 deadline. Reviewing the backgrounds of David Stumbo and Richard Hricik can help residents understand how each may approach the office’s administrative responsibilities.
Further reading
For more information on the upcoming ballot, visit the South Carolina Elections section.
Live Poll
Should the rule of law be applied equally regardless of political affiliation or economic influence?
