COLUMBIA, S.C. — On Friday, President Donald Trump announced his endorsement of three Republican candidates for governor in South Carolina, Iowa, and Oklahoma, intensifying the competition among his supporters for his approval.
Through social media, Trump expressed his support for South Carolina Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, Iowa Rep. Randy Feenstra, and former Oklahoma state senator Mike Mazzei, as these states prepare for their primary elections.
The primaries are set for Tuesday in Iowa, June 9 in South Carolina, and June 16 in Oklahoma, marking the first competitive Republican gubernatorial primaries in these states for several years.
Evette has served two terms alongside Gov. Henry McMaster, an early Trump supporter in his initial presidential campaign. McMaster’s endorsement of Evette earlier this year hinted that Trump’s endorsement might follow.
Trump acknowledged Evette’s efforts for his campaign in 2024 and noted the potential addition of Henry McMaster Jr., the current governor’s son, to her campaign as a significant advantage.
In South Carolina, securing the president’s endorsement has become a central focus of the primary race.
Separately, Trump praised Feenstra, describing him as fully aligned with the MAGA movement and committed to addressing issues such as economic growth, border security, and supporting law enforcement.
Both Evette and Feenstra have been outspoken about their desire for Trump’s endorsement, believing it would bolster their campaigns in states that played a key role in Trump’s 2024 return to office. Feenstra had previously requested Trump’s backing, and Evette’s campaign prominently features images of her with Trump.
Feenstra faces competition from four other Republicans in the primary to succeed Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, who is not seeking a third term. His rivals include state Rep. Eddie Andrews, businessman and former conservative political director Zach Lahn, former state Rep. Brad Sherman, and former state Department of Administrative Services director Adam Steen.
In South Carolina, Evette is contending for the nomination against Rep. Nancy Mace, Rep. Ralph Norman, and state Attorney General Alan Wilson.
In Oklahoma, Mazzei is vying to succeed Gov. Kevin Stitt, who is concluding his second term. His competitors include state Attorney General Gentner Drummond, former state House Speaker Charles McCall, and former state public safety secretary Chip Keating.
Trump declared his full endorsement of Mazzei, stating that he would not disappoint voters as Oklahoma’s next governor.
