As South Carolina’s partisan primary elections approach, former President Donald Trump has made his stance clear regarding the state’s attorney general race. While he has not endorsed a candidate, Trump has openly criticized David Pascoe, one of the contenders vying for the position.
Trump’s Criticism
In a recent post on his Truth Social platform, Trump labeled Pascoe a ‘RINO candidate’ and a ‘lifelong Democrat,’ referencing Pascoe’s previous support for Joe Biden. Trump’s post read, ‘Pascoe is a total fraud and phony, and is no friend of our incredible Movement to, MAKE SOUTH CAROLINA, AND AMERICA, GREAT AGAIN!’
Pascoe, currently serving as the first circuit solicitor, is one of three candidates hoping to replace Alan Wilson, who is running for governor. The other candidates in the race are S.C. senator Stephen Goldfinch and S.C. eighth circuit solicitor David Stumbo.
Pascoe’s Response
Despite Trump’s remarks, Pascoe remains undeterred. He attributes the criticism to ‘enemies’ who are concerned about his potential as the state’s top prosecutor. ‘The level of corruption we have in Columbia is incomprehensible to outsiders, and I’m going to fight like hell until we crush it,’ Pascoe stated. He expressed confidence that, given the chance to speak with Trump, he could win his support.
Pascoe also highlighted his backing from informed conservative Republican voters in South Carolina, suggesting that misinformation has influenced Trump’s current view.
Political Action Committee Campaign
Adding to the pressure on Pascoe, a political action committee named S.C. Integrity Watch has launched a statewide advertising campaign targeting him. The campaign includes a thirty-second advertisement that contrasts Pascoe’s past support for Biden with his current Republican candidacy, labeling him a ‘Fake Republican’ and ‘Biden Democrat.’
With polling indicating that nearly three-quarters of likely Republican primary voters remain undecided, the impact of Trump’s criticism and the negative ad campaign on Pascoe’s chances remains to be seen. The primary elections are scheduled for June 9, 2026, with a potential runoff if no candidate secures a majority.
Original reporting: FITSNews — read the source article.
