Sheri Biggs wins South Carolina election to take over for Rep. Duncan

Sherri Biggs, a nurse practitioner backed by Gov. Henry McMaster, emerged victorious in the GOP primary runoff election on Tuesday, securing the Republican nomination to succeed outgoing Rep. Jeff Duncan in South Carolina’s 3rd Congressional District.

The runoff was triggered after neither Biggs nor her opponent, Mark Burns, managed to secure a majority of the votes in the initial Republican primary election for the district. Burns garnered approximately 33% of the vote, receiving over 27,000 votes, while Biggs earned about 28% of the vote with just over 23,500 votes.

Biggs, a lieutenant colonel in the Air National Guard, positioned herself as a “pro-life, pro-Second Amendment lifelong Republican” throughout her campaign. She emphasized her commitment to serving with bold, conservative, servant leadership in Washington.

Despite Burns receiving an endorsement from former President Trump, Biggs had the explicit support of Gov. McMaster. McMaster praised Biggs, stating, “Sheri Biggs epitomizes the greatness of the people of South Carolina — an unwavering belief in God, a commitment to selfless service, and a true resolve to fight for our shared values.”

In response to Trump’s endorsement of Burns, Biggs reiterated her willingness to collaborate with the former president and highlighted her dedication to addressing the nation’s fiscal, mental, and spiritual health challenges while championing conservative values.

On the other hand, Burns, a pastor, was endorsed by Trump as an “America First Fighter” who is dedicated to securing the border, upholding the rule of law, strengthening the economy, and defending the Second Amendment. Burns has been vocal about his stance on border security and his opposition to the “woke” agenda.

Burns, recognized as “Donald Trump’s favorite pastor” by Time Magazine, established a church in Easley after serving in the South Carolina National Guard. He prides himself on his alignment with Trump’s priorities and policies, particularly on issues related to border security and the economy.

Rep. Jeff Duncan opted not to seek re-election after serving seven terms in the 3rd Congressional District. His decision came amidst personal turmoil, as his wife filed for divorce the previous year, alleging multiple extramarital affairs.

In the Democratic Party, Bryon Best, who manages a Sherwin Williams paint store in Greenwood, secured the nomination to represent the district after defeating high school science teacher Frances Guldner in the primary election. The district, predominantly rural and located in the northwestern region of South Carolina, has not been won by a Democrat since Lindsey Graham’s victory in 1994.

Besides Biggs and Burns, five other Republicans initially contended for the GOP nomination for the seat. The field included State Rep. Stewart Jones, businessman Franky Franco, and Kevin Bishop, a former staffer for Sen. Lindsey Graham.

The race for South Carolina’s 3rd Congressional District has been marked by a spirited contest between Biggs and Burns, with both candidates securing key endorsements and articulating contrasting visions for the district’s future. As the campaign progresses towards the general election, voters will have the opportunity to assess the candidates based on their platforms, experience, and alignment with the values of the constituents they seek to represent.