July 16, 2025

Alan Wilson Announces Gubernatorial Campaign in South Carolina

News Summary

Alan Wilson, the four-term Republican attorney general of South Carolina, is set to officially enter the race for the state’s open gubernatorial seat. He will launch his campaign at a rally, gathering support from constituents and party members. With filing for candidates opening soon, Wilson’s announcement positions him as a prominent contender among other Republicans eyeing the seat. His strong alignment with the policies of former President Donald Trump and previous legal battles against Democratic administrations may influence his candidacy as he seeks to rally support within the Republican base.

South Carolina – Alan Wilson, the four-term Republican attorney general, is set to officially enter the race for South Carolina’s open gubernatorial seat in 2026. Wilson plans to launch his campaign at an event on Monday, where he will gather support from his constituents and other party members.

An invitation has been circulated for an “Alan Wilson for South Carolina Campaign Rally,” marking the beginning of his formal campaign efforts. Filing for the state’s gubernatorial candidates opens in March 2026, and Wilson’s announcement comes as several other Republicans, including U.S. Representative Nancy Mace and Lieutenant Governor Pam Evette, are also considering their own bids for the position.

All potential candidates have made efforts to align themselves with former President Donald Trump, who maintains substantial popularity in South Carolina and may significantly influence voter sentiments in the upcoming election. Wilson, a known supporter of Trump, has previously backed Trump’s political initiatives, including signing a letter in opposition to impeachment proceedings in 2020 and attending the former president’s recent trial in New York.

Wilson’s advocacy for Trump’s immigration and deportation policies further solidifies his alignment with the former president, which could be a key factor in garnering support from the base of the Republican Party. The open gubernatorial seat is especially compelling as the current Governor, Henry McMaster, is term-limited, leading to an anticipated competitive primary season among Republican hopefuls.

Political Background and Achievements

Alan Wilson has held the position of attorney general since 2010, where he has become known for his vigorous legal actions against Democratic administrations, including high-profile lawsuits against the Biden administration on multiple issues. He has been a prominent figure in the Republican Attorneys General Association, having served as chairman three times.

Wilson has been proactive in addressing pressing national concerns, such as advocating for laws against child exploitation using artificial intelligence. He has also proposed federal legislation permitting state prisons to disrupt cellphone signals, showcasing his intent to enhance public safety. Additionally, on a state level, he defended South Carolina’s strict abortion laws against constitutional challenges.

His recent successful prosecution of Alex Murdaugh in a major murder case garnered nationwide attention, which may boost his visibility and credibility as he embarks on his gubernatorial campaign. Wilson brings a rich background in public service and military experience, having served nearly three decades in the Army National Guard, where he currently holds the rank of colonel.

Personal Life

Wilson resides in Lexington, South Carolina, with his wife and two children. He is the son of Joe Wilson, a longstanding congressman from South Carolina, which adds a familial political legacy to his profile. His family ties and military background may resonate well with voters who prioritize these values.

The political landscape for the 2026 gubernatorial race indicates a vigorous competition among Republican candidates, especially given South Carolina’s tendency for aggressive primaries. As Wilson formally announces his campaign, he aims to build a strong grassroots movement while leveraging his extensive political experience and established connections within the party.

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Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON

The HERE Clinton Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Clinton community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Clinton: Our team includes lifelong Clinton residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Clinton’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., Clinton Technical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Clinton Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.

STAFF HERE CLINTON

The HERE Clinton Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Clinton community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Clinton: Our team includes lifelong Clinton residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Clinton’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., Clinton Technical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Clinton Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.