High Voter Turnout Marks Election Day in Spartanburg and Cherokee County
SPARTANBURG, Nov 7, 2024 —
Yesterday marked an enthusiastic Election Day in Spartanburg and across South Carolina. Despite cloudy skies and light showers, voters turned out in droves, casting their votes on everything from the presidency to local soil and water conservation district commissioners.
Harvey’s Loss & The Future of Democratic Party
Democratic Party Chair Kathryn Harvey failed to oust Republican U.S. Rep. William Timmons in the race for South Carolina’s U.S. House District 4. Despite raising more funding than any recent Democratic challenger, Harvey fell short of victory. After accepting her loss, the chairwoman stressed that this election season made history and asserted that the effort to flip the traditionally conservative Upstate is still in its early stages.
High Voter Turnout in Cherokee County
In Cherokee County, reports suggested a high voter turnout, with several local races at stake. In addition to the presidential elections and state-wide seats, voters also decided on positions ranging from county council members to sheriff.
Write-In Candidate Emerges in Sheriff’s Race
In an unexpected development, the Spartanburg Democratic Party endorsed sheriff’s office Capt. Raymond Gist as a write-in candidate against incumbent sheriff Chuck Wright. Despite the fact that Gist, an experienced officer, seemed unaware of his endorsement, his name was thrown into the ring, stirring up an otherwise unchallenged race.
Economy & Immigration: Top Concerns for Voters
The economy and immigration were defining issues for many voters in Spartanburg. For example, retiree Dane Newsome cast his vote for former President Donald Trump, pointing out the notable economic progress and immigration reforms under Trump’s administration. Likewise, Teresa Vance, a former retail worker who came out to vote after skipping the last two presidential elections, highlighted her concern over the current state of inflation.
Despite the drizzle and chilly November weather, voter turnout was robust. Precincts such as Mt. Moriah Baptist Church and Jesse Boyd Elementary School reported steady streams of voters throughout the day.
The Road Ahead
On the whole, Election Day 2024 served as a crucial marker for Spartanburg, with voters turning out in significant numbers. As Kathryn Harvey stressed, it’s just the beginning for the Democrats in their mission to turn the tide in Spartanburg and Greenville, while the Republicans aim to consolidate their stronghold. The road seems long and winding, but the spirit of Spartanburg’s and Cherokee County’s democracy remains undeterred and eager.
