Record Turnout Expected in South Carolina Election
Columbia, SC – Election Day Details
Tuesday marks a significant day for voters in South Carolina, where residents will cast their ballots for a variety of candidates and issues, ranging from presidential hopefuls to local school board positions. This year represents the first instance of early voting occurring in statewide elections featuring a presidential candidate at the top of the ballot.
Early Voting Numbers
In York, Chester, and Lancaster counties, early voting generated impressive turnout, with approximately 50% of registered voters casting their ballots before Election Day. Alan Helms, director of York County’s elections office, expressed optimism that the participation level could surpass the 69% total turnout observed in 2020, given the strong engagement in early voting.
What’s at Stake
On the ballot, voters will face several important referendums, including a $410 million road improvement measure, known as the “Pennies for Progress” initiative in York County, as well as a $588 million school bond in Lancaster County. Chester County voters will also decide on a proposed $227 million school bond.
Key Races in Local Districts
One of the notable contests features incumbent Republican Ralph Norman facing off against Democrat challenger Evangeline Hundley for a seat in the 5th District U.S. House of Representatives. Norman, who has held the position since 2017 and previously won by a substantial margin, is anticipated to retain his seat despite Hundley’s efforts.
The elections will also include contested races for the South Carolina General Assembly. In State House District 26, Republican David Martin will compete against Democrat Matt Vilardebo, while State Senate District 17 showcases incumbent Democrat Mike Fanning going up against Republican Everett Stubbs.
Contested Local Offices
In Chester County, several competitive races are underway for positions including county clerk and council districts. For instance, Democrat A. Tenna Thompson Cook is vying for the Clerk of Court against petition candidate Betty Jo Lawson. Moreover, the Chester County school board district features a nonpartisan race with Delores Ann Crockett and Tara Thomas competing for votes.
School Board Elections
Local school board elections present a significant decision-making opportunity for voters. In York County, every school district features nonpartisan elections with multiple candidates vying for three available seats in Fort Mill schools and competitive races in Rock Hill and Clover schools. In Rock Hill, for example, five seats are contested including two at-large positions, reflecting a diverse range of options for constituents.
How to Vote
Registered voters can access their sample ballot and further information via the state elections website, scvotes.org. The process to view a personalized ballot requires the voter to log in with specific details, including their county and personal identification information.
Expectations for Turnout
Despite record levels of early voting participation, election officials still predict a significant turnout on Election Day itself. Both political science experts from Winthrop University note that the current early voting trends indicate a heightened public interest in the ongoing electoral processes.
As the polling places open, voters across South Carolina will have a chance to make their voices heard on crucial issues and candidates that will shape their communities for years to come.
