South Carolina House subcommittee advances bill delaying June 9 primary to August 11
Updated
Updated · Democracy Docket · May 8
South Carolina House subcommittee advances bill delaying June 9 primary to August 11
6 articles · Updated · Democracy Docket · May 8
The 3-2 party-line vote came as more than 6,000 absentee ballots had already been sent, with over 200 returned, and election officials warned replacing them could cost about $2.5m.
Republicans say the delay would allow time to redraw congressional lines, including dismantling Democratic Representative Jim Clyburn's district; 23 residents testified against both the map and postponement, and none supported them.
The state Senate delayed related action until next week as some Republicans sought to review the proposed map, which would split Charleston and divide Richland County into three districts.
After a new court ruling, can states change election maps anytime, even after voting has already started?
South Carolina’s 2026 Redistricting Crisis: Election Delays, Supreme Court Fallout, and the Fight Over Black Voter Power
Overview
South Carolina’s legislature is moving quickly to address congressional redistricting and the possible postponement of elections. The House has approved an amendment to the sine die resolution, which could extend the legislative session to review new congressional maps if the Senate also agrees. Without this amendment, the governor would have needed to call a special session, but he has stated he does not expect to do so this year. These actions come as lawmakers respond to recent Supreme Court decisions affecting how districts are drawn, highlighting the urgency and complexity of the state’s current political situation.