Double endorsement drama: Trump backs second candidate in red state’s GOP gubernatorial runoff
Trump endorses both Wilson and Evette in South Carolina's GOP gubernatorial runoff, hedging his bets ahead of the high-profile Tuesday contest.
TL;DR
- Donald Trump endorsed both Alan Wilson and Pam Evette in the South Carolina Republican gubernatorial runoff.
- Trump stated he couldn't hurt one candidate by only endorsing the other.
- This dual endorsement is a strategy to hedge bets, as Trump previously endorsed Evette.
- The runoff is viewed as a test of Trump's influence in the GOP.
- Trump has made similar dual endorsements in other Republican races.
- Evette and Wilson advanced to the runoff after neither secured a majority in the primary.
- Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman endorsed Wilson after failing to advance.
- Senator Ted Cruz also endorsed Wilson.
- The contest between Evette and Wilson has been described as combustible, with personal attacks exchanged.
- Wilson highlights his experience as attorney general and combat veteran.
- Evette positions herself as an outsider and businesswoman.
- Senator Tim Scott is supporting Wilson.
- South Carolina has not elected a Democratic governor in 28 years.
- Trump's endorsement power has been evident in recent GOP primaries, but he also experienced a recent loss.
- A Trump-backed candidate lost in Georgia's GOP gubernatorial runoff.
- A Trump-backed candidate won a Senate runoff in Alabama.
- Another Trump-backed candidate won a Senate runoff in Georgia.