Rep. Ralph Norman, a Republican from South Carolina and a prominent member of the hard-right Freedom Caucus, officially announced his candidacy for governor on Sunday. He aims to succeed current GOP Governor Henry McMaster, who is unable to run for re-election due to term limits. Known for his contentious relationship with the GOP leadership, particularly regarding expansive spending bills, Norman has positioned himself as a staunch conservative.
Notably, Norman was one of the few House lawmakers who did not endorse former President Donald Trump during the presidential primary, instead pledging his support to former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley. However, during his gubernatorial announcement, he praised Trump, describing his presidency as one of the "greatest" in U.S. history. “What he did to wipe out the terror of Iran and the courage that he had to take decisive action will ensure his place among the greatest presidents we have ever had,” Norman stated. He emphasized the need for similar leadership in South Carolina, declaring, “This is why I’m here to announce I’m running to be the 118th governor of South Carolina.”
Norman's campaign slogan, "I’m running for governor to shake things up," resonated with supporters present at the announcement, as they chanted his name: “Ralph! Ralph! Ralph!” He expressed his commitment to implementing term limits for state legislators, a central theme of his campaign, which was also prominently displayed at his event with the phrase: "Term limits. Clean up Columbia."
During his speech, Norman highlighted his conservative credentials, referencing his tenure in the House Freedom Caucus. “Some people say I've earned a reputation for being uncompromising, always striving to enhance legislation,” he remarked. “Well, folks, I take that as a compliment, and I'm proud of it. When it comes to defending South Carolina values and protecting your hard-earned tax dollars, I drive a hard bargain, and I don’t apologize for that.”
Haley, who previously held the position of governor in South Carolina, endorsed Norman’s gubernatorial campaign on the same day as his announcement, further solidifying his standing within the GOP. Other Republican contenders have already emerged, including Alan Wilson, the state's attorney general, and Pamela Evette, the state’s lieutenant governor.
Norman made his official announcement in Rock Hill, South Carolina, where he was introduced by his son. He walked onstage to the motivational tune "I Won't Back Down," a song that has also been associated with the Trump campaign. With the gubernatorial election approaching next year, Norman’s campaign is poised to attract significant attention as he aims to galvanize support among South Carolina's conservative electorate.
