Things are looking promising for South Carolina Democrats at both the state and national levels. With the surprise victory of Joe Cunningham in SC Congressional District 1 seat, two newly elected members to the SC House of Representatives, and one SC Senate pickup, for the first time in years SC Democrats were able to flip seats in what most have considered a Ruby Red state.
Cunningham’s victory was part of a Blue Wave that will put Congress back in Democratic control. This is great news for Rep. James Clyburn, who currently serves as the House Democratic Whip and with Democrats back in control, he is expected to remain in leadership as the House Majority Whip. However, rumors on the Hill state he may be the alternative choice if his good friend Nancy Pelosi falls short in her bid to regain the position of Speaker of the House. Clyburn has expressed his support of Pelosi for Speaker. While we believe Pelosi has been an extremely effective Leader and Speaker, if she is unable to secure the votes needed, we sure hope Clyburn gets a shot at the post.
At the state level, Dick Harpootlian won a Senate seat that had been held by Republican John Courson for 23 years until his resignation last year. This was a big win for Democrats! In addition, Democrats were able to flip two Republican House Districts, both in Charleston. JA Moore will represent House District 15 in January, unseating incumbent Rep. Samuel Rivers, Jr and Krystle Simmons who will represent District 117 after unseating Republican Rep. Bill Crosby. Both first time candidates will bring new energy and perspectives to Columbia.
While it may have not been the “Blue Wave” experienced in some states, the results are indications that new areas and district are at play for Democrats in the Palmetto state. If the Trump administration continues its current train wreck of a path and Governor McMaster continues to incompetently run our state, we may be witnessing a shift and new reality within the state. Because of this, things are looking promising for SC Democrats. Political insiders are saying that in 2020, as many as 10 plus House and Senate seats will be in play. A large number of these seats are in the Pee Dee and Lowcountry and consist of districts that Trump won in 2016.
SC Democrats have praised party chair, Trav Robertson, for his leadership this cycle, and many believe Mandy Powers Norrell is a star that could lead to Democrats retaking the Governor’s mansion in the future. All-in-all, SC Democrats are optimistic and feel the future will be brighter for Democrats in SC. We sure hope so!