Charleston, August 15, 2025
News Summary
Following the release of disturbing dash cam footage from his arrest, the South Carolina Democratic Party has urged Mullins McLeod to withdraw from the 2026 gubernatorial race. The footage shows McLeod displaying erratic behavior and making threats related to law enforcement amidst allegations of drug influence. McLeod, who launched his campaign branding himself as a ‘servant leader’, faces misdemeanor charges for disorderly conduct. The party’s chair emphasized the need for him to focus on mental health over pursuing public office.
Charleston
The South Carolina Democratic Party has called for Mullins McLeod to withdraw from the 2026 governor’s race following the release of disturbing dash cam footage from his May arrest. The videos depict McLeod, 53, making bizarre statements and issuing threats toward law enforcement and South Carolina politicians.
William “Mullins” McLeod was arrested on May 15 for public disturbance while reportedly dressed only in underwear and shoes near the Battery in downtown Charleston. The dash cam footage reveals McLeod refusing to identify himself, instead referring to himself as “Superman” and “God.” In the video, he also made vague threats against current and former South Carolina politicians, particularly targeting Republican Attorney General Alan Wilson.
In response to the footage surfacing, Wilson commented on the situation by offering McLeod the “benefit of the doubt,” while directing attention back to his own campaign for governor. Allegations surfaced that McLeod used a racial slur during the incident as well. Reports from the scene indicated that McLeod exhibited signs of possible drug influence, with noted bloodshot and dilated eyes; however, it remains unclear if he was tested at the time of the arrest.
McLeod was forcibly removed from the patrol vehicle when he refused to exit upon arriving at the detention center, and he was booked shortly before 1 a.m. on May 16. He currently faces pending misdemeanor charges for disorderly conduct related to this incident.
On August 11, McLeod officially launched his campaign for governor, branding himself as a “servant leader” whose primary focus is to combat corruption in South Carolina politics. His entry marked him as the first Democrat to announce a run for the governorship amid the upcoming election cycle. Current Governor Henry McMaster will not be eligible to seek reelection due to term limits.
In light of the recent developments, Christale Spain, chair of the South Carolina Democratic Party, suggested that McLeod should concentrate on his mental health rather than pursuing a campaign for public office. The calls for his withdrawal underscore the party’s concern about the implications of the video footage and the potential impact on the Democratic platform moving forward.
Impact on Democratic Campaigns
McLeod’s situation raises questions about the Democratic Party’s strategy in South Carolina as it approaches the next gubernatorial election. His controversial behavior and the subsequent fallout could hinder the party’s goals and image, especially if McLeod remains in the race amidst these serious allegations.
Background on Mullins McLeod
Prior to his political ambitions, McLeod’s history includes a focus on community involvement and local issues. However, the recent incidents may overshadow his previous efforts, raising doubts about his suitability as a candidate for governor. The pending charges compound concerns regarding his suitability for public office, especially as a leader for the state of South Carolina.
Summary of Key Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| May 15, 2023 | Mullins McLeod arrested for public disturbance. |
| August 11, 2023 | McLeod launches campaign for governor. |
| Late September 2023 | Dash cam footage released, prompting calls for withdrawal from race. |
| Pending | McLeod faces misdemeanor charges for disorderly conduct. |
FAQ
What sparked the calls for Mullins McLeod to withdraw from the governor’s race?
Calls for withdrawal were ignited by the release of dash cam footage showing McLeod making bizarre statements and threatening law enforcement following his arrest.
When was Mullins McLeod arrested?
Mullins McLeod was arrested on May 15, 2023, for public disturbance.
What charges does McLeod currently face?
McLeod faces pending misdemeanor charges for disorderly conduct related to his arrest.
What has the South Carolina Democratic Party said regarding McLeod’s campaign?
The South Carolina Democratic Party has urged McLeod to focus on his mental health instead of pursuing his gubernatorial campaign.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Mullins McLeod Announces Candidacy for South Carolina Governor
Cancellation of Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day
Mullins McLeod Launches Gubernatorial Campaign in South Carolina
Mullins McLeod Announces Candidacy for Governor
Charleston Lawyer Arrested for Disorderly Conduct
Local Attorney Arrested for Disorderly Conduct in Charleston
Additional Resources
- Count on 2: South Carolina Democratic Party Calls for Mullins McLeod to Exit Governor’s Race
- Post and Courier: Jeremy Lopez Recovery Room
- WCHS TV: Gas Leak Closes Public Safety Complex in Charleston
- Live 5 News: SC Highway 61 to Receive Safety Improvements
- Count on 2: Inmate Dies After Being Found Unresponsive at Charleston County Jail
- Wikipedia: South Carolina
- Google Search: Mullins McLeod
- Google Scholar: Mullins McLeod
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mullins McLeod
- Google News: Mullins McLeod
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
