Trump jumps into Republican primaries for governor in South Carolina, Iowa and Oklahoma
Politics — 2026-05-30 09:31:00 — www.politico.com
COLUMBIA, S.C. — President Donald Trump has endorsed three Republican gubernatorial candidates, intensifying the competition for his support in South Carolina, Iowa, and Oklahoma. In a series of social media posts, Trump backed South Carolina Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, Iowa Rep. Randy Feenstra, and former Oklahoma state senator Mike Mazzei as the primary elections approach.
### Key Endorsements
Iowa’s primary is set for Tuesday, followed by South Carolina’s on June 9 and Oklahoma’s on June 16. These elections mark the first competitive Republican gubernatorial primaries in years for all three states.
Evette has served alongside South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster, a prominent Trump ally since the former president’s first campaign. Earlier this year, McMaster endorsed Evette, signaling that Trump’s endorsement could follow. Trump expressed appreciation for Evette, noting her support during his 2024 campaign and highlighting that a potential running mate for her could be Henry McMaster Jr., the governor’s son.
In a separate post, Trump described Feenstra as “MAGA all the way,” asserting that he would “fight tirelessly” for Iowa on critical issues like the economy, border security, and law enforcement. Both Evette and Feenstra have actively sought Trump’s endorsement, believing it could significantly influence their campaigns in states pivotal to Trump’s political future.
### Competitive Landscape
Evette faces competition from Rep. Nancy Mace, Rep. Ralph Norman, and state Attorney General Alan Wilson in South Carolina. Meanwhile, Feenstra is up against four other Republicans, including state Rep. Eddie Andrews and businessman Zach Lahn, in Iowa. In Oklahoma, Mazzei is running against state Attorney General Gentner Drummond and former state House Speaker Charles McCall, among others.
Trump’s endorsement of Mazzei was emphatic: “Mike Mazzei has my Complete and Total Endorsement to be the next Governor of Oklahoma — HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!” he declared on social media.
### Conclusion
As the primaries approach, Trump’s endorsements underscore his continued influence within the Republican Party. His backing not only serves as a significant boost for the candidates but also reflects the ongoing dynamics of loyalty and competition among GOP members. With the primaries looming, the candidates will be keenly aware of the weight Trump’s words carry in their respective races.