Congressman Ralph Norman officially joins the 2026 race for South Carolina governor
The fifth district congressman teased a campaign launch in a social media post. 'Make plans to join me Sunday the 27th to hear some exciting news about the future of South Carolina.' He has since changed the account name to "Ralph Norman for Governor" and launched his campaign website for the gubernatorial race.
More: U.S. Reps. Nancy Mace, Ralph Norman hint at upcoming announcements on state's future
"Ralph Norman believes we must finally clean up Columbia and pass term limits, so we can prepare South Carolina for the future by fixing our roads and improving our schools," Norman's campaign team said in a statement. "He's the political establishment's worst nightmare.'
Who is Ralph Norman?
Norman was first elected to represent the fifth congressional district in South Carolina in a 2017 special election. He has held the seat ever since.
He is also a member of the House Freedom Caucus, a coalition of conservative representatives that supports "open, accountable and limited government," according to its Facebook page.
Before he was elected to Congress, Norman was first elected to the South Carolina State House of Representatives in 2004. He served one term and did not run in 2006; instead, he ran for the open fifth congressional district seat. After losing the 2006 congressional race, he won re-election five times at the state level before moving to the U.S. House of Representatives.
Norman's campaign is focused on fixing South Carolina roads and infrastructure, letting residents elect judges and creating a South Carolina Department of Government Efficiency. His website also states that he is "100% Pro-Life and 100% Pro-Gun."
"Ralph doesn't just talk a big game about being a conservative," his website states. "He has the record to prove it."
Upcoming campaign kickoff in Rock Hill
Norman's campaign kickoff event will be in Rock Hill at the Magnolia Room.
Doors to the event open at 2:30 p.m. and it starts at 3:30 p.m.
The congressman is the fourth candidate to officially enter the race for South Carolina's governor. His competitors for the 2026 GOP primary nomination are Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, Attorney General Alan Wilson, and State Senator Josh Kimbrell.
Republican U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace of the first congressional district has hinted at joining the governor's race, with a recent X post referencing an upcoming "big decision." State Rep. Jermaine Johnson (D-Richland) also said he is considering a run for governor.
Bella Carpentier covers the South Carolina legislature, state, and Greenville County politics. Contact her at bcarpentier@gannett.com
This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Republican Ralph Norman announces run for South Carolina governor
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