Context:

Alan Wilson, South Carolina’s longstanding Republican attorney general, is poised to enter the 2026 gubernatorial race in an open field likely to draw numerous candidates seeking former President Trump's endorsement. Wilson, known for his firm support of Trump and involvement in various legal and political actions on Trump's behalf, plans to officially launch his campaign at a rally, though official filing does not commence until March. The Republican primary is anticipated to be highly competitive, as the GOP has dominated South Carolina’s statewide offices for years, and current Gov. Henry McMaster is term-limited. Wilson’s tenure as attorney general has included high-profile prosecutions, such as the case against Alex Murdaugh, and participation in lawsuits against Democratic administrations, exemplifying his strong conservative stance and legal activism. His family ties in South Carolina politics and his military service further bolster his profile as a formidable candidate in the upcoming race.

Dive Deeper:

• Alan Wilson, serving as South Carolina's attorney general for four terms, is preparing to enter the 2026 gubernatorial race, which is set to be an open contest with multiple candidates vying for the Republican nomination and Trump’s endorsement.

• Wilson has consistently supported former President Trump, including opposing impeachment proceedings and attending Trump's trial in a hush money case, reflecting his alignment with Trump's political and personal agendas.

• The Republican primary is expected to be one of the most intense political competitions in South Carolina due to the GOP's long-standing control over statewide offices, with several candidates, including Rep. Nancy Mace and Lt. Gov. Pam Evette, expressing interest in running.

• Wilson's actions as attorney general include leading lawsuits against policies from Democratic administrations, such as vaccine mandates and environmental regulations, and advocating for measures like legislation against AI exploitation and jamming signals of smuggled cellphones in prisons.

• He gained national attention by prosecuting Alex Murdaugh in a sensational murder case, which captivated public interest and highlighted his legal prowess.

• Despite his political affiliations, Wilson recused himself from a state ethics probe due to personal connections, maintaining ethical boundaries in his professional responsibilities.

• Beyond his political career, Wilson's personal background includes being the son of a long-serving South Carolina congressman and serving as a colonel in the Army National Guard, contributing to his image as a seasoned and multifaceted political figure.