MORNING HEADLINES | In-person early voting for this year’s Nov. 3 elections begins today across the Palmetto State, as voter discontent with high gas and grocery prices and an unresolved war with Iran fuel Democratic hopes for a blue wave so large it might even reach the ruby red shores of South Carolina.
Of particular concern to Republicans are the U.S. Senate race pitting appointed incumbent Sen. Darline Graham against Lowcountry pediatrician Annie Andrews and the 1st Congressional District contest where Republican Charleston County Councilmember Jenny Honeycutt is facing off against retired Vice Admiral Nancy Lacore.
With polls showing both races tight, President Donald Trump will be rallying Republican voters this Wednesday in Clemson, looking to rekindle some of the political magic that propelled him to an 18-point victory in the state just two years ago. His message? “I am on the ballot.”
In other races, voters will elect constitutional officers, including governor, S.C. House members and local county officials. In addition, they will be asked to approve billions in local road and infrastructure taxes from Greenville to Beaufort.
Under S.C. early-voting rules, local election stations will be open during business hours Monday through Saturday at locations in each county through Oct. 31.
For more, including locations and what you’ll need to vote, visit SCVotes.gov.
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Listening Across America
Don’t forget to follow Editor Andy Brack on ListeningAcrossAmerica.com as he talks with people across the country about what’s happening as it heads toward the midterm elections. Today, he’s in Utah. You can also find out what’s happening via YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
In Friday’s issue of the Charleston City Paper
Brack: For change, you’ve got to get out and vote. “In our ongoing Listening Across America trip across the country, hearing from voters about what’s going on politically as the midterm elections approach, we’ve noticed something in lots of red states from South Carolina through New Mexico — not too many yard signs.”
CP NEWS: Meet the down-ballot S.C. candidates you may not know. Democratic consultant Paul Begala used to say that being famed campaign guru James Carville’s business partner was like being the late and much-loved Dolly Parton’s feet: Sure, you’re great. But who’s ever gonna notice you? Candidates running in statewide down-ballot races know the feeling.
In other recent headlines
CAMPAIGNS: S.C. Democrats hit the campaign trail with Sen. Raphael Warnock. Georgia Sen. Raphael Warnock joined Democratic candidates Annie Andrews and Jermaine Johnson for a series of rallies across South Carolina, hoping to build enthusiasm and boost turnout at the start of early voting.
- Graham gently breaks with Trump over Russia sanctions
- Andrews raises $9.4 million as money battle heats up in South Carolina Senate race
- Lacore outraises Honeycutt as outside spending pours into South Carolina congressional race
- DNC chairman sees opportunity for S.C. Democrats despite longtime challenges
LOCAL RACES: Charleston County Council races put growth, traffic and leadership on the ballot. With five council seats up for election and at least one new member guaranteed, voters will weigh candidates’ plans for development, housing and transportation.
- Three Mount Pleasant-area Statehouse races pit Republican incumbents against Democratic newcomers
- Condon, Curry face off for Charleston County probate judge
Johns Island’s first recreation center moves closer to construction. Charleston is preparing to break ground on a $65 million recreation center featuring pools, basketball courts, pickleball and community spaces, with construction expected to finish in late 2028.
- Mount Pleasant asks residents to help decide future of 38-acre property
- Emanuel AME shooting survivor Polly Sheppard shares her story through museum and documentary
- IAAM brings Charleston together for homecoming celebration
- Morris Island Lighthouse marks 150 years as efforts to save it continue
CALENDAR: How to find cool things to do around town
Our online events calendar has scores of events around the Lowcountry every day, making it the most detailed calendar of what’s happening in the area. Just click on “Events” above at right under the black toolbar. You’ll be amazed at what you find.
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