The Post and Courier will host Palmetto Politics LIVE, a free gubernatorial forum featuring Republican and Democratic candidates for South Carolina governor. The event is presented by AARP South Carolina and will be held at Lightsey Chapel on the campus of Charleston Southern University in North Charleston.
The forum will take place Thursday, May 28, 2026. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the event begins at 6 p.m. Admission is free, but registration is required.
Executive Editor Jeff Taylor will moderate, with Politics Editor Schuyler Kropf posing questions to the candidates on issues facing South Carolina.
“As South Carolina’s most trusted news source, we are committed to giving voters a front-row seat to democracy,” Taylor said. “This forum is about accountability, transparency and making sure South Carolinians hear directly from those who want to lead our state.”
“AARP believes democracy works best when voters hear directly from those seeking to lead. This forum reflects our commitment to ensuring the voices of South Carolinians, especially older adults and family caregivers, remain part of the conversation with those who want to govern our state,” said Nikki Hutchison, AARP associate state director of advocacy.
Confirmed candidates as of May 6, 2026:
• Lt. Gov. Pam Evette
• State Rep. Jermaine Johnson
• U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace
• U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman
• Businessman Rom Reddy
• Businessman Billy Webster
Palmetto Politics LIVE is made possible by AARP South Carolina. Tickets are free. Reserve a seat at postandcourier.com/PalmettoPoliticsLIVE.