Democrat Mullins McLeod officially files for SC governor, vows to ‘challenge system’

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — Democrat Mullins McLeod officially filed to run for governor of South Carolina on Wednesday, entering the race to win his party’s nomination in a state where Republicans have dominated statewide offices for decades.

McLeod, an attorney, said he decided to run after traveling the state and speaking with voters about concerns over government accountability and leadership.

“I’m running for governor because the political class refuses to do what’s in the people’s best interest,” McLeod said in a statement, criticizing what he described as a “corrupt political system” and pledging to return power to voters.

He has worked as an attorney for more than 25 years, representing clients across South Carolina. His name was elevated back into the spotlight when he was arrested in May 2025. In August of that year, police released a video of his arrest, where he was seen in a profanity-laced tirade.

In the days after the video surfaced, McLeod vowed to continue his gubernatorial bid.

South Carolina has not elected a Democratic governor since Jim Hodges left office in 2003. The office is currently held by Republican Henry McMaster, who is term-limited.

McLeod would need to clear the field in his party’s primary, with state Rep. Jermaine Johnson also looking for the nomination.

On the Republican side, several high-profile names have been mentioned as potential contenders, including Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, Attorney General Alan Wilson, U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman, U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, state Sen. Josh Kimbrell and Isle of Palms millionaire Rom Reddy.

McLeod said his campaign will focus on challenging the political establishment and advocating for South Carolinians, who he said feel unheard.