South Carolina Solicitor David Pascoe Joins Republican Party

News Summary

David Pascoe, the First Circuit Solicitor, has officially switched from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party. His decision reduces the number of Democratic solicitors in South Carolina and signifies a shift in local political dynamics. At a GOP dinner, Pascoe highlighted his concerns with the Democratic Party’s stance on crime and the judicial system. His switch leaves many speculating about his future candidacy for statewide office, particularly attorney general, amidst a backdrop of evolving political landscapes in South Carolina.

South Carolina Solicitor David Pascoe Switches to Republican Party

On April 10, 2025, First Circuit Solicitor David Pascoe announced his decision to switch from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party. This transition reduces the number of Democratic solicitors in South Carolina to just three, while the Republican Party holds 13 solicitor titles statewide. Pascoe made the announcement during a gathering at the Dorchester County GOP dinner held at the Summerville Country Club.

Pascoe was joined at the event by notable Republicans, including Ninth Circuit Solicitor Scarlett Wilson, Fourteenth Circuit Solicitor Duffie Stone, and Dorchester County Sheriff Sam Richardson. His switch not only signifies a personal political shift but also highlights the growing dominance of Republicans in local office.

Background on David Pascoe

David Pascoe has served as the First Circuit Solicitor since 2004 and is a graduate of The Citadel. He gained national attention in 2006 for successfully prosecuting the case against Mikal Mahdi, who was convicted of murdering an Orangeburg police officer; Mahdi is slated for execution on April 11, 2025. Additionally, Pascoe led an investigation into corruption within the South Carolina legislature, resulting in the indictment of former House Speaker Bobby Harrell and winning a Supreme Court case that allowed for further scrutiny of lawmakers’ actions.

The First Circuit encompasses Dorchester, Orangeburg, and Calhoun counties, where Pascoe has been one of the few Democrats elected to county-wide positions in Dorchester County. During the 2024 general election, he ran unopposed as a Democrat. He previously considered running for the Democratic nomination for attorney general in 2010 but withdrew before the primary.

Political Motivations Behind the Switch

Pascoe has expressed his feelings about the Democratic Party, stating that it has become “too soft on crime.” He conveyed discomfort with its stance on criminal justice policies, specifically criticizing President Biden’s December 2024 decision to commute federal death sentences. He indicated that his departure from the Democratic Party arose from the belief that its leadership prioritizes the lives of criminals over the pursuit of justice.

In recent years, Pascoe has shown support for Republican candidates, particularly in law enforcement. He has endorsed Sheriff Sam Richardson and Solicitor Scarlett Wilson in their respective elections. Following his party switch, speculation has mounted regarding Pascoe’s potential candidacy for statewide office in 2026, especially for the role of attorney general. He noted that his decision to run would not be influenced by Alan Wilson, the current attorney general, who is also anticipated to run for governor and potentially vacate his seat.

Context of the Attorney General Position in South Carolina

South Carolina has not elected a Democrat to the attorney general’s office in the past 35 years. The last Democrat to hold the position, Travis Medlock, did not seek re-election in 1994. As Pascoe weighs his options, his intentions have raised interest due to Alan Wilson’s expected departure from the AG seat.

Following his announcement, Christale Spain, the chairwoman of the South Carolina Democratic Party, criticized Pascoe’s motivations, suggesting that the party switch was strategically aimed at enhancing his chances for higher office. To this day, Pascoe has built a reputation for advocating for judicial reform and criticizing the judicial selection process in South Carolina. He has overseen the prosecution of more than 100 violent crime cases, building a distinguished career within both the Fifth Circuit Solicitor’s Office and the Attorney General’s Office.

As David Pascoe navigates his new political affiliation and potential future bids for office, the implications of his switch resonate within the current political landscape of South Carolina, reflecting the evolving dynamics between the state’s two main political parties.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Count on 2 News
• SC Daily Gazette
• Post and Courier
• Wikipedia: David Pascoe
• Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina