Filing Closes for Laurens County Races—Here’s Who’s on the Ballot
April 1, 2026
The candidate filing period for the November 3, 2026 statewide general election has produced a slate of local races that will shape leadership across Laurens County in the coming years.
According to the official filing list dated March 30, 2026, several contested races have emerged, while others currently feature a single candidate.
The primary election is scheduled for June 9, 2026, where voters will help determine several key matchups heading into the general election.
State House District 14 Draws Multiple Candidates
One of the most closely watched races will be for South Carolina House of Representatives District 14. Incumbent Luke Rankin has filed and will face Republican challenger Rick Shealy in the primary, while Democrat Michanna Tate has also filed for the seat.
The outcome of the primary elections will determine the final matchups heading into November.
Countywide Offices Currently Uncontested
Several countywide positions opened this cycle due to retirements, and only one candidate filed for each.
- Probate Judge: Kevin C. Nix (Republican)
- Auditor: Linda Walden Hodges (Republican)
- County Treasurer: Cynthia M. Burke (Republican)
The Probate Judge seat becomes available following the retirement of Kaye Fridy, while longtime County Auditor Jim Coleman is also stepping down, paving the way for new leadership in both roles.
County Council Races Include Key Primary Contests
County Council races show a mix of contested and uncontested seats, with several districts seeing transitions in leadership.
In District 1, Nancy R. Garrison has filed for the seat as incumbent Kemp Younts has chosen not to seek another term.
District 4 will feature a primary contest, with Jimmy Poole, Libby Pinson, and Lonnie Wilson all filing for the seat currently held by Brown Patterson, who is not seeking re-election.
In District 5, Darryl Halbert remains the only active candidate after Jeffrey Carroll withdrew prior to the primary. Carroll, who currently serves as Chairman of Laurens County Council, will not seek re-election for the seat.
What Comes Next
With filing now complete, attention will shift to the June 9 primary elections, where several of these races—particularly District 14 and County Council District 4—are expected to draw significant local interest.
Voters can expect more information about candidates, platforms, and upcoming election details in the weeks ahead as the 2026 election cycle begins to take shape across Laurens County.
Early Voting for Primaries begins on May 26, 2026 at the Laurens County Voter Registration & Elections office (105 Bolt Dr, Laurens).
