President Trump delivered late endorsements to two Republican candidates in contentious governor’s primaries on Friday, shifting dynamics ahead of Tuesday’s votes. The former president championed Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette in South Carolina and Rep. Randy Feenstra in Iowa.
In Iowa, Trump posted a full endorsement on Truth Social for Feenstra, declaring him “MAGA all the way.” His statement highlighted Feenstra’s claimed victories in 2016, 2020, and 2024 as governor, his roles as a fourth-generation Iowan, businessman, former county treasurer, state senator, and U.S. Congressman, and his pledge to “Grow the Economy,” “Cut Taxes and Regulations,” and “Strengthen” military forces among other policy goals. Trump concluded: “Randy Feenstra has my Complete and Total Endorsement to be the next Governor of Iowa — RANDY WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!”
Feenstra faces four other Republicans in the primary: Eddie Andrews, Zach Lahn, Brad Sherman, and Adam Steen. Local Iowa media described Trump’s endorsement as potentially the most influential Republican boost in the race.
In South Carolina, Trump endorsed Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette over a crowded field that includes Rep. Nancy Mace and Attorney General Alan Wilson. The former president also stated he would select Henry McMaster Jr., son of the current governor, as Evette’s running mate if she wins.
Rep. Nancy Mace responded publicly to Trump’s endorsement, expressing respect for his record but emphasizing her commitment to addressing South Carolina’s “corrupt” system and “establishment” that has dominated state politics for a decade. She declared: “I WILL DRAIN THE SWAMP, not keep the same creatures there.” Mace highlighted her plans to eliminate South Carolina’s state income tax and reduce living costs while taking on sanctuary sheriffs and securing major infrastructure funding. Attorney General Alan Wilson also reacted online, noting both primaries are set for Tuesday.
