Donald Trump stepped directly into three highly competitive Republican gubernatorial primaries on Friday, issuing crucial endorsements in South Carolina, Iowa, and Oklahoma. In a series of social media posts, Trump gave his backing to South Carolina Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette, Iowa Representative Randy Feenstra, and former Oklahoma State Senator Mike Mazzei as their respective election dates approach.
The move lands in the middle of intense intra-party battles, as all three states are experiencing their first competitive Republican gubernatorial primaries in years. Iowa voters head to the polls this coming Tuesday, followed by South Carolina on June 9, and Oklahoma on June 16.
In South Carolina, Evette has spent two terms serving alongside Governor Henry McMaster, who was one of Trump’s earliest high-profile backers during his initial presidential run. McMaster had already endorsed his second-in-command earlier this year.
On Friday, Trump highlighted Evette’s campaign efforts on his behalf during the 2024 election cycle, pointing out that a “BIG added plus” for her bid is the potential for the current governor’s son, Henry McMaster Jr., to join her ticket as a running mate. Evette is currently facing a crowded primary field that includes Representative Nancy Mace, Representative Ralph Norman, and state Attorney General Alan Wilson.
Further west in Iowa, Trump threw his weight behind Feenstra, labeling the congressman “MAGA all the way.” Trump wrote that Feenstra would “fight tirelessly” for the state on key issues, specifically highlighting the economy, border security, and support for law enforcement. Feenstra is one of five Republicans vying to replace outgoing Governor Kim Reynolds, who chose not to seek a third term. He is running against state Representative Eddie Andrews, businessman Zach Lahn, former state Representative Brad Sherman, and former state administrative official Adam Steen.
Trump wrapped up his Friday announcements by backing Mazzei in Oklahoma, where current Governor Kevin Stitt is wrapping up his second and final term. Mazzei is locked in a primary contest against state Attorney General Gentner Drummond, former state House Speaker Charles McCall, and former state public safety secretary Chip Keating.
“Mike Mazzei has my Complete and Total Endorsement to be the next Governor of Oklahoma — HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!” Trump posted.
Both Evette and Feenstra had been openly campaigning for Trump’s blessing for months, banking on his influence in states that strongly backed his 2024 presidential return. Feenstra previously confirmed he personally requested the endorsement, while Evette’s campaign materials have consistently highlighted her appearances alongside Trump.
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