In a startling display of voter apathy, South Carolina’s Democratic Presidential Primary saw a mere 4.09% voter turnout, as current president Joe Biden took the lead amidst a field of hopefuls. Official tallies provided by the South Carolina Election Commission reveal that only 131,870 of the over 3.2 million registered voters cast their ballots in this critical electoral event.
The turnout for 2024 dramatically dwindled when compared to the 2020 figures, where approximately 16% of eligible voters participated in the Democratic primary. Political analysts suggest this decline raises concerns over voter engagement in the state’s political processes.
This year, only a trio of South Carolina counties – Orangeburg, Lee, and Williamsburg – witnessed turnout rates surpassing the 10% mark. These figures stood in stark contrast to the overall state numbers, hinting at varying levels of local political mobilization.
This tepid voter response came as a blow to Democratic leaders who had advocated for South Carolina to lead the primary calendar. Despite their efforts, the state trailed behind New Hampshire, coming in as the second primary. Notwithstanding, it did achieve the distinction of being the first state with President Biden on the ballot, following his write-in candidate victory in the “Granite State.”
Jaime Harrison, Chair of the Democratic National Committee, expressed severe criticism toward the management of the primary. He pointedly condemned the precinct consolidations within several counties, branding the actions as “disgusting” and counterproductive to fostering a robust democratic process.
South Carolina awaits the official certification of its primary outcome expected later in the week, which will cement these preliminary figures into the annals of this electoral season.