State Rep. James Smith[1] claimed the Democratic Party's nomination for governor Tuesday as he and his party try to reclaim the S.C. Governor's Mansion for the first time in 20 years.
In a win for the Democratic Party's establishment, Smith — a Columbia attorney and Afghanistan combat veteran[2] — won enough votes to hold off his two primary opponents — Charleston technology consultant Phil Noble[3] and Florence anti-trust attorney Marguerite Willis[4] — and avoid a runoff.
In November, Smith will face the winner of a June 26 runoff between Gov. Henry McMaster of Columbia[5] or Greenville's John Warren[6].
On Tuesday, Smith beamed from inside 701 Whaley, the same building where he first kicked off his campaign[7].
"I ask that you take the energy in this room tonight to your homes, to your workplace and to all of our communities," Smith told the crowd. "I know as governor, our best days are ahead of us."
Party favorite got boost early
Smith was the presumed frontrunner in the Democratic race.
The 22-year S.C. House member announced his candidacy in October[8] — though, he opened a campaign account in September [9]— well before Willis, who finished second in the primary, and Noble, who finished third. That gave Smith a lead in raising money and organizing a statewide door-knocking grassroots effort.
Smith, 50, also was able to lock in early key endorsements[10] from Democratic heavy hitters, including former Vice President Joe Biden[11] and U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn[12], the state's senior
