Ralph Norman of Freedom Caucus announces bid for South Carolina governor

A conservative House Freedom Caucus member is entering the race for governor of South Carolina.

Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., announced his campaign at a rally in Rock Hill on Sunday, stating his goal to bring change and accountability to the state’s political establishment.

Norman’s campaign platform includes the establishment of a Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to address issues of waste, fraud, and abuse in the state.

He also promises to focus on improving infrastructure, implementing term limits for lawmakers, advocating for tort reform, and allowing the people to vote on judges.

In addition, Norman pledges to use his position to support socially conservative initiatives like school choice and maintaining gender-specific school bathrooms.

Norman joins a competitive Republican primary field that includes South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, and state Sen. Josh Kimbrell.

The gubernatorial election in South Carolina is scheduled for November 2026.