Attorney General Alan Wilson Draws Large Crowd to Laurens County GOP Freedom BBQ

The Laurens County Republican Party welcomed nearly 100 attendees to its Third Annual Freedom BBQ, held this week with featured speaker South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson. The evening blended fellowship, food, and a strong showing of state and local leaders, underscoring Laurens County’s role as a hub for conservative politics in the Upstate.

Evening Program and Recognition

The invocation and blessing were offered by Rev. Allie McNider, pastor of Mountville Baptist Church. Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner catered by Lee’s Brothers BBQ, a Laurens County family-owned business known for its tradition of Southern hospitality.

The crowd was energized by the Red Hot Raffle, which included more than 20 prizes. The grand prize—a Blackstone Grill—was won by Steve Davis of Laurens.

In a heartfelt moment, Chair Valerie Jones recognized the recent passing of former Laurens County Republican Party Chair Jake Rasor, Jr., honoring his legacy of leadership and service.

Music was provided by Hastings Stewart, adding a lively backdrop to the evening.

Distinguished Guests

Numerous elected officials and party leaders joined the celebration, including:

• State Rep. Craig Gagnon

• 8th Circuit Solicitor David Stumbo

• Laurens County Sheriff Don Reynolds

• Coroner Patti Canupp

• Laurens County Councilmen Justin Lane, Matthew Brownlee (also interim Chair of the SC Young Republicans), and Jeff Carrol (Chair of Laurens County Council)

• Former South Carolina Representative Stewart Jones

• Greenwood County GOP Chair Glenda Corley

• Former Clinton Mayor Bob McLean

Jones also received special recognition for achieving a 100% lifetime score for his consistent conservative voting record, based on the 2024 CPAC ratings released last week.

Keynote Address by Attorney General Alan Wilson

Attorney General Wilson addressed the audience on a range of issues, including his vision for phasing out state income taxes, personal stories that have shaped his perspective, and priorities for South Carolina’s future in infrastructure, education, and judicial reform.

Following his remarks, Wilson participated in a Q&A session before greeting attendees one-on-one during a meet and greet.

Looking Ahead

The Laurens County GOP continues to build momentum with upcoming meetings and speakers. Leaders are working diligently to bring all candidates for governor to Laurens County to ensure local voters have the opportunity to hear directly from each of them.

“The Freedom BBQ is just the beginning of a busy fall season for the Laurens County Republican Party. We invite everyone to join us for these exciting upcoming events.” — Valerie Jones, Chair of the Laurens County Republican Party

📌 Upcoming Public Events
Presented by the Laurens County Republican Party

• September 11 – State Treasurer Curtis Loftis & honoring Laurens County First Responders

• October 17 & 18 – LCRP booth at Squealing on the Square

• October 30  – Congressman Ralph Norman, candidate for Governor

• November 10 – Lt. Governor Pamela Evette, candidate for Governor, and Salute to Laurens County Veterans

• December – Christmas Party (date to be announced) including inaugural Jingle Bell raffle fundraiser