SC State Senator Kimbrell Enters 2026 Gubernatorial Race

Republican State Senator Josh Kimbrell has officially launched his campaign for South Carolina governor, making his announcement at an event in Spartanburg County. Kimbrell, currently serving his second term in the state senate, emphasized his collaborative approach to working with the legislature and outlined key policy priorities including eliminating income taxes and establishing an Office of Parental Rights.

Kimbrell joins Attorney General Alan Wilson in the race to succeed term-limited Governor Henry McMaster. The 2026 election represents South Carolina's first open gubernatorial contest since 2010, with Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette and Congresswoman Nancy Mace also expected to enter the Republican primary. Kimbrell expressed confidence that voters would connect with his policy positions despite potentially facing opponents with higher name recognition.

The state senator described his vision for the governor's role as being similar to a quarterback, positioning himself between confrontational and passive approaches to working with South Carolina's General Assembly. He stated his intention to pursue a collaborative relationship with legislators, contrasting this with what he characterized as less effective approaches taken by previous governors. Kimbrell's campaign launch highlighted his legislative experience as a potential advantage.

On the Democratic side, State Representative Jermaine Johnson of Richland County has formed an exploratory committee but has not yet officially declared his candidacy. Political observers anticipate additional candidates from both parties to announce their intentions in the coming months, though the official filing period for the gubernatorial election does not open until March 2026.

The growing field of candidates reflects the significance of this open-seat race in South Carolina politics. With Governor McMaster unable to seek reelection due to term limits, the contest represents an opportunity for new leadership in the state's executive branch after what will be eight years under the current administration.