Democrats to Launch Gubernatorial Bid in South Carolina
Jermaine Johnson and Sam Skardon will seek the governor and lieutenant governor offices on November 3, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Political Parties
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Jermaine Johnson and Sam Skardon are entering the race for governor and lieutenant governor of South Carolina. The pair will stand for election on November 3, 2026.
Why it matters
The ticket aims to secure a Democratic win in a state that has not elected a Democratic governor since 1998. The outcome of this race will test the party's platform and its ability to win statewide office in South Carolina.
Jermaine Johnson currently represents districts in Richland and Kershaw counties in the state House of Representatives. He is a former professional basketball player and the founder of a nonprofit focused on young people and military veterans.
The players
Jermaine Johnson
He is a Democratic candidate for governor of South Carolina and a member of the state House representing parts of Richland and Kershaw counties.
Sam Skardon
He is the Democratic candidate for lieutenant governor of South Carolina running on the ticket with Jermaine Johnson.
Jim Hodges
He is a former governor of South Carolina and served as the last Democrat to win the gubernatorial office in the state.
The details
Johnson has outlined a platform that includes a reconfiguration of the income tax and a reduction of the property tax burden if elected. He also advocates for the development of more affordable housing across South Carolina.
Timeline
Jim Hodges won the gubernatorial race in 1998.
Jim Hodges' term as governor ended in 2003.
Election Day is set for November 3, 2026.
Political Context
This campaign seeks to overcome the political momentum established by the Republican Party since the 1998 South Carolina gubernatorial election. Opponents likely point to the state's recent electoral history as evidence of a significant barrier to Democratic success.
The proposed tax reconfigurations and property tax changes would directly impact the tax liabilities of South Carolina households. Residents will also see potential shifts in state investment strategies regarding affordable housing availability in their local communities.
The takeaway
Voters will soon evaluate whether the platform proposed by Johnson and Skardon provides a viable path to executive office. The race highlights the ongoing competition to shape the fiscal and housing policies of the state.
What happens next
The Democratic ticket will face the general election on November 3, 2026.
Further reading
Find more updates on upcoming statewide campaigns at South Carolina Political Parties.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WCIV.
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In your state, is it time for a change in the governor's political party?
