CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, met with voters in Mount Pleasant, as she works to separate herself from a crowded GOP primary field by emphasizing her business background and a platform focused on taxes, regulation and public safety.
Putting business first is central to her campaign, Evette said, arguing her experience sets her apart from other candidates. “I’m the only one in this race who has started a successful business from her home, and grew it into a national company,” she said.
Among her policy priorities, Evette is calling for eliminating the state income tax, cutting what she described as unnecessary regulations, and focusing on public safety. She also framed economic development as a statewide effort, saying, “All the businesses that come to South Carolina are part of team South Carolina.”
Evette said she wants South Carolina to welcome industries such as AI, bitcoin and data centers, while also protecting surrounding communities. Asked how support for bitcoin and digital currency aligns with environmental protections, Evette said, “If a business wants to come here, it cannot negatively impact its surrounding area.”
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On immigration enforcement, Evette said she wants to continue South Carolina’s partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. She also said leaders should work to reduce tensions around divisive issues. “When you’re a leader,” said Evette, “you should know how to de-escalate what’s happening in your state to keep your people safe.”
Evette also weighed in on the war in Iran, saying, “I can’t remember a time when I haven’t heard Iran chanting ‘death to America.” She added, “I thank President Donald Trump for having the backbone to make sure the world’s sponsor of terrorism does not have the capability to harm us, our citizens, or our allies.”
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The Republican primary for governor includes five candidates: Evette, Attorney General Alan Wilson, U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, state Sen. Josh Kimbrell and U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman. On the Democratic side, state Rep. Jermaine Johnson and Mullins McLeod have also announced campaigns.
