Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., one of seven Republicans vying to become South Carolina’s next governor, stated Tuesday that the party’s primary race “looks very good for me.”
During an interview, Norman expressed confidence in his campaign while criticizing Democrats over what he described as political gamesmanship surrounding government funding and border security.
Norman faces a crowded Republican primary field that includes Rep. Nancy Mace. With just weeks remaining before the June 9 election, he emphasized that South Carolinians deserve a “proven conservative” to lead the state.
“We’re going to win this race,” Norman told interviewers. “South Carolinians deserve a proven conservative, and I think that’s what I bring to the table.”
The contest marks the first open gubernatorial race in South Carolina in more than a decade, setting up a closely watched battle that could shape the state’s political direction for years.
Norman also argued that Democrats have repeatedly forced government shutdowns without securing meaningful concessions, jeopardizing national security. He specifically cited funding battles over the Department of Homeland Security, stating Democrats have “shut [it] down” despite ongoing global tensions and border concerns.
“I think the people do get it,” Norman said. “This is a hijacking that’s not going to work for them, and they should pay a price for it.”
As a member of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, Norman emphasized the importance of advancing a reconciliation package before taking up other funding measures. He cited a lack of trust in Senate leadership and called for more aggressive tactics, including a “talking filibuster,” to force action.
“They ought to put the senators on the floor and get this thing passed,” Norman said, warning that Republican priorities—including full funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol—must not be weakened.
Additionally, Norman voiced strong support for increased defense spending amid what he described as a war with Iran. He praised President Donald Trump’s approach to national security, contrasting it with the Biden administration’s failures.
“What this president has done to take out the number one sponsor of terror—we know it costs money,” Norman said. “A stronger military posture prevents greater threats to the U.S.”
