Evette gains support of Medal of Honor recipient, Wilson campaign endorsed by 22 sheriffs
Several Upstate sheriffs, including Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis, Pickens County Sheriff Tommy Blankenship, and Oconee County Sheriff Mike Crenshaw, voiced their support for Wilson in the 2026 Republican primary, according to his campaign.
The group of 22 sheriffs issued a joint statement saying that Wilson has made it easier for law enforcement to protect South Carolina families.
'His proven record of cracking down on drug trafficking, protecting women and children, and leading the charge on judicial and victims services reform speaks for itself,' the statement said. 'Alan Wilson will be a governor who fights for families, upholds the rule of law and will keep South Carolina safe.'
Wilson made support for law enforcement and public safety a focal point of his initial campaign speech, which he delivered at a Lexington restaurant on June 23. He talked about how reforming the state's domestic violence laws, fighting drug trafficking and hiring more victims' advocates have been priorities of his since he was elected attorney general in November 2010.
More: Attorney general announces run for governor of South Carolina: 'Beginning of a new fight'
Blankenship issued a separate statement applauding the attorney general's efforts to combat illegal immigration and the fentanyl crisis.
Matthew Goins, the communication director of Evette's campaign, responded to the sheriff's endorsements of Wilson in a statement that reaffirmed Evette's support of law enforcement.
"Pamela has always backed the blue. She's worked hand-in glove with Gov. McMaster to ensure they have the pay, resources, and support they deserve," Goins said. "She looks forward to working with law enforcement from across the state to keep families safe as the next governor of South Carolina."
More: Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette makes it official and enters 2026 race for South Carolina governor
Evette's campaign posted a YouTube video on July 22 with Medal of Honor recipient and retired Marine Corps Maj. Gen. James E. Livingston offering his endorsement for the lieutenant governor's campaign.
"It is absolutely my pleasure to recommend Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette to be our next governor," Livingston said. "She will be a real tribute to this state and bring her great leadership and great vision to the people of South Carolina."
The campaign team for Josh Kimbrell, current state senator and gubernatorial candidate, did not respond to a request for comment about the endorsements. Two state Republican lawmakers — Sen. Matt Leber (R-Charleston) and Rep. David Martin (R-York) — publicly endorsed Kimbrell's campaign at its kick-off event in Inman on June 28.
Bella Carpentier covers the South Carolina legislature, state, and Greenville County politics. Contact her at bcarpentier@gannett.com
This article originally appeared on Greenville News: South Carolina candidates for governor endorsed by veteran, sheriffs
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