South Carolina Democrat Jermaine Johnson launched his 2026 gubernatorial bid, aiming to break a 17-year Republican hold on statewide offices.

Jermaine Johnson, a South Carolina Democratic state representative, has officially launched his 2026 gubernatorial campaign, becoming the second Democrat to enter the race. Representing parts of Kershaw and Richland Counties, Johnson, a three-term lawmaker and former college basketball player, highlighted his personal journey overcoming homelessness and loss. He aims to bring reform-minded leadership to a state where no Democrat has won a statewide office since 2006. The race will be competitive, with five Republicans vying for their nomination, including Lt. Gov. Pam Evette and U.S. Reps. Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman. Governor Henry McMaster, ineligible for re-election, will leave office after a long tenure.