UMVA has learned that a heated runoff election is set to take place on June 23, pitting Nancy Lacore, a retired Navy vice admiral, against Mac Deford, a local attorney, in a bid to fill a congressional vacancy left by Rep. Nancy Mace.
The runoff was triggered after neither candidate secured more than 50% of the vote in a crowded Democratic primary on Tuesday evening. Lacore and Deford emerged as the top contenders, setting the stage for a fiercely contested showdown.
Lacore, who was fired by War Secretary Pete Hegseth, has positioned herself as an anti-politics civil servant, highlighting her military record and commitment to service, honor, and integrity. Her campaign video showcases her 35-year career in the Navy, where she rose to the rank of three-star admiral.
Deford, on the other hand, has presented himself as a pragmatic candidate, boasting a track record of serving as Associate General Counsel for the Town of Mount Pleasant. He has emphasized his experience in navigating complex issues, including the COVID-19 pandemic and federal funding through FEMA.
The winner of the runoff will face an uphill battle to become just the second Democrat to hold South Carolina's 1st Congressional District in over 40 years. The district has been a Republican stronghold since 1981, with Rep. Joe Cunningham being the only Democrat to hold the seat in recent years.
Lacore has raised $1.4 million as of late May, while Deford has secured $547,800 in funding, according to FEC records. The runoff election on June 23 will determine which candidate will take on the challenge of flipping the seat.
Rep. Nancy Mace, who vacated her seat to run for governor, has been a firebrand conservative known for breaking with her party on high-profile issues. Her departure has created an opportunity for Democrats to make inroads in the district.
The congressional vacancy has set off a scramble for the Democratic nomination, with Lacore and Deford ultimately emerging as the top contenders. Their campaigns will likely focus on issues such as the economy, healthcare, and national security in the lead-up to the runoff election.
