Florence County Election Results: Incumbents Prevail in Competitive Races

Florence County’s Election Results: Incumbents Shine Amid Tight Races

Florence, SC – The results from the November 5, 2024, elections in Florence County are in, and it seems that incumbents are quite the favorites! Voters flocked to the Florence Department of Social Services to cast their ballots, and while some races were nail-biters, the trend favored those already holding office.

Close Call for Florence 1 Schools Seat 3

The race for the Florence 1 Schools Seat 3 between E.J. McIver and Barbara Martin-Moses turned out to be a real thriller, with McIver winning by a mere 80 votes. He edged out Martin-Moses with 51.43% of the votes. McIver’s journey has seen him wear several hats, including pastor, educator, and city council member. It seems the voters appreciate his experience!

Incumbent Successes in Legislative Races

In the higher echelons of state politics, incumbents not only held their ground but also saw some impressive margins of victory. State Senator Mike Reichenbach, a Republican, tallied 66% against Democrat Belinda Timmons, cementing his spot in Senate District 31. He promised to prioritize public safety and support opportunities for technical colleges, vital for the economic landscape of South Carolina.

Meanwhile, Republican Jay Jordan secured his sixth term in the House District 63 race with 67% of the votes over Kory Haskins. Jordan ran on a platform featuring bond reform and lowering state income tax—issues that resonate with many voters in the area. In his upcoming term, he wants to tackle energy needs and boost teacher salaries. Let’s hope he follows through!

New Faces and Continued Leadership

Despite many challengers falling short, there were a few newcomers breaking into the spotlight. Andy Rogers triumphed in the District 2 race for Pamplico, picking up nearly 72% of the vote. He has local roots as a farmer and business owner and emphasizes the need for the county to “tighten its belt” while assisting schools with funding.

In District 4, Jerry Yarborough snagged a win over Democrat Mitchell Kirby with 56%. Yarborough has focused on expanding broadband access and enhancing recreational opportunities during his first term—a popular agenda in a growing community.

Florence 1 Schools Board Retains its Incumbents

On the education front, incumbents on the Florence 1 Schools’ Board of Trustees retained their spots with little contention. Barry Townsend (Seat 1), Kimrey-Ann Haughn (Seat 5), and Porter Stewart (Seat 7) all cruised back into their roles without trouble. However, Carla Lynch-Eaddy did manage to unseat incumbent John Galloway in the race for Seat 2, winning by a slight edge over Galloway and another candidate!

Exciting Changes on Sundays

In a striking change of tradition, voters approved a measure allowing the sale of beer and wine on Sundays by a decisive 67%-33% vote. County Council members put the measure on the ballot, and it seems locals were ready to stock up for their weekend gatherings. Florence County now joins many surrounding areas in this new Sunday shopping flexibility!

Contested Countywide Races

Looking at other countywide offices, it seems most incumbents had it easy this year. Sheriff TJ Joye, Clerk of Court Doris O’Hara, Coroner Keith Von Lutcken, and Treasurer Laurie Walsh Carpenter are set to continue their public service for another four years—unopposed by challengers.

In the city of Florence, a few races also sailed through without opposition. Lethonia “Peaches” Barnes stepped into the role of new mayor, while Chaquez McCall retained his seat on the City Council. A special election will soon be held to fill Barnes’ former council position.

As the dust settles on the election, it’s clear that Florence County residents have made their voices heard. Whether upholding familiar leaders or welcoming new faces, the community looks forward to the direction they will take together in the coming years.