President Donald Trump’s endorsement power was on display in South Carolina’s Republican gubernatorial runoff. The candidate Trump endorsed, state Attorney General Alan Wilson, defeated Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette to capture the GOP nomination in the race to succeed term-limited Republican Gov. Henry McMaster.

Trump’s Endorsement Strategy

Notably, Trump endorsed both candidates in the runoff, a move seen as a way to hedge his bet. Trump initially endorsed Evette late last month, and then endorsed Wilson just before the runoff.

Wilson, who was also backed by Sen. Ted Cruz, will now face Democratic nominee Jermaine Johnson in the general election. It’s been 28 years since a Democrat won a gubernatorial election in South Carolina, and Wilson is considered the clear favorite.

National Implications

The outcome of the South Carolina runoff is seen as a test of Trump’s influence in Republican primaries. Trump’s endorsement streak has been on display in recent weeks, with his candidates winning in several states.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.