SCGOP to push for partisan voter registration with federal lawsuit

SC Republican Party threatening to sue state over lack of movement on closing party primaries

Currently, there is no party registration in South Carolina, meaning voters are free to participate in either major party’s nominating vote in a given year — but not both.

SCGOP to push for partisan voter registration with federal lawsuit

South Carolina currently operates under an open primary system, allowing voters to participate in either party’s primary without formally registering with a party.

SCGOP brings legal action, seeking partisan primaries

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– The South Carolina Republican Party is pursuing legal action in an effort to bring partisan primary voting to the state.   This morning, Tues, May 12, 2026, party officials announced a federal lawsuit aimed at partisan voter registration in the state. They argue that South Carolina’s Republican candidates should be picked by Republicans only. Not every Republican is in favor of partisan primaries. Governor Henry McMaster …