Two Democratic Candidates Set for Runoff in South Carolina’s 1st District Race
Navy admiral fired by Hegseth and local – Nancy Lacore, a former Navy vice admiral dismissed by Pete Hegseth, and Mac Deford, a local attorney, have moved to the runoff stage in South Carolina’s Democratic primary for the 1st Congressional District. The contest, which began with a crowded field, will determine the next representative for the district that has been held by Republicans for most of the past four decades. With no candidate securing more than 50% of the votes on Tuesday, the final decision will be made on June 23, when the winner will aim to unseat the current GOP majority and become the second Democrat to hold the seat since the 1980s.
The Vacancy: Mace’s Exit to Governor
The race was triggered by the departure of Rep. Nancy Mace, a prominent Republican from the district, who announced her candidacy for South Carolina’s governorship. Mace, known for her unorthodox approach to politics, had previously gained attention for her willingness to diverge from party lines on major issues. Her decision to run for state office left a congressional vacancy, sparking a competitive race among Democrats eager to challenge the Republican stronghold.
Mace’s political career has been marked by bold stances. In 2023, she joined eight Republican lawmakers in voting to remove former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, a move that highlighted her independence from party norms. Earlier this year, she also played a key role in pushing for a vote on the Epstein Files, a controversy involving former President Donald Trump. These actions underscored her reputation as a political maverick, a trait she hopes to carry forward in her gubernatorial bid.
“South Carolina needs a governor who will drag the truth into sunlight and flip the tables,” Mace declared during her announcement. The quote, from her campaign speech, reflects her determination to continue her legacy of challenging the status quo at the state level.
A District in Republican Hands
South Carolina’s 1st Congressional District, a relatively safe Republican seat, has been under GOP control since 1981, with the exception of a brief period from 2019 to 2021 when Rep. Joe Cunningham, a Democrat, represented the area. Mace’s victory in the 2024 election—secured with a 58.2% to 41.6% margin over her Democratic opponent, businessman Michael Moore—solidified the district’s conservative leanings. Now, the Democratic candidates face the daunting task of reversing this trend.
For Lacore, the opportunity to become the first Democrat in the district since the 1980s is tied to her military background. She served as a Navy pilot and rose to the rank of three-star admiral before her removal by War Secretary Pete Hegseth, a move she claims was unjust. “Without cause,” Lacore described the decision, which came during the Trump administration’s push to streamline the Department of Defense. Her firing coincided with the ousting of other high-profile figures, including Lt. Gen. Kennedy Kruse, head of the Defense Intelligence Agency, and Rear Adm. Milton Sands, leader of the Naval Special Warfare Command. All three were relieved of their duties on August 22, 2025.
Lacore’s Campaign: Civil Servant vs. Politics
Lacore has positioned herself as a candidate who prioritizes service over partisan politics. In a campaign video, she emphasized her decades of military experience, stating, “For 35 years, I served in the U.S. Navy with the belief that service, honor, and integrity matter; that these are the qualities of true leaders.” She contrasts her background as a dedicated public servant with what she perceives as the shortcomings of current political leaders. Her campaign has raised $1.4 million as of late May, according to FEC records, reflecting her appeal to voters seeking stability and accountability.
Deford, meanwhile, has framed his bid as a return to practical governance. The local attorney’s campaign highlights his experience as associate general counsel for the Town of Mount Pleasant, where he guided the community through the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic. He also points to his work on housing initiatives and managing federal funding via FEMA, showcasing his ability to navigate both local and national policy. “This isn’t a political stop for me. This is home, and I want to serve as your next representative in Washington,” Deford said in a campaign video, underscoring his commitment to the district’s needs.
The Road Ahead: A Battle for the Future
With the runoff approaching, both candidates are preparing to intensify their efforts. Lacore’s focus remains on her military record and the circumstances of her dismissal, while Deford emphasizes his track record in public service and problem-solving. The race has become a pivotal moment for South Carolina’s Democratic Party, offering a chance to reclaim a seat that has been a Republican stronghold for over 40 years.
The outcome of the runoff will not only shape the district’s political landscape but also test the candidates’ ability to connect with voters amid a polarized environment. As the June 23 election nears, the competition between Lacore and Deford will likely center on issues of leadership, integrity, and the role of government in both defense and everyday life. For the Democrats, the stakes are high, and the lessons from the primary will be crucial in determining their strategy moving forward.
Meanwhile, the broader implications of the race extend beyond the district. The dismissal of senior military officials by the Trump administration has raised questions about the influence of political leadership on defense operations. Lacore’s case, in particular, has drawn attention as a symbol of the tension between military discipline and political maneuvering. Her candidacy may resonate with voters who value a straightforward approach to governance, even as they critique the administration’s handling of the department.
As the runoff draws closer, the candidates’ messages will be shaped by the unique challenges of the district and the national political climate. Their efforts to position themselves as the best choice for South Carolina’s 1st District will determine whether the Democratic Party can make a meaningful dent in the Republican hold on the seat—and perhaps set a precedent for future races in the state.
