Partisan Rating
R+12
Cook PVI / Presidential lean
2020 Result
Biden 43% / Trump 55%
Presidential election
Capital
Columbia
9 Electoral Votes
Presidential Election Results 2012–2024
| Year | D % | R % | Winner | Margin | Context |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 43% | 55% | Trump | R +12 | Trump +12; Biden improves slightly vs Clinton in suburban Charleston and Columbia. |
| 2016 | 40% | 55% | Trump | R +15 | Trump +15; Black turnout depressed somewhat vs Obama era. |
| 2012 | 44% | 55% | Romney | R +11 | Romney +11; Obama performance strongest for D in modern era due to high Black turnout. |
State Voting Trend
Traditional Deep South Republican state. Large Black population (27%) concentrated in Columbia metro and Lowcountry provides a Democratic floor around 40-43%. Charleston area has seen some suburban D drift. Rural white conservative vote delivers consistent R+12 to R+16.
Senator: Lindsey Graham (R) • Governor: Henry McMaster (R) • Electoral Votes: 9 • Population: 5.3M