Final Debate: Who Wins South Carolina?

The final Democratic gubernatorial debate in South Carolina turned fiery as attorney Mullins McLeod, state Rep. Jermaine Johnson, and businessman Billy Webster clashed over immigration, wages, and housing affordability—just days before the primary. McLeod aggressively challenged both rivals, targeting Johnson’s past legislative work and Webster’s private equity ties, which he said are driving up home prices. Johnson defended his record, calling McLeod’s attacks unfair, while Webster appeared rattled but later praised Johnson’s mentorship. Though they disagreed on policy, Johnson and McLeod surprisingly ended on a friendly note. On immigration, all three criticized ICE’s actions, but diverged on solutions: Johnson and McLeod backed a $18 minimum wage, while Webster focused on Medicaid expansion. With over 235,000 ballots already cast, this was voters’ last chance to see them face off—primary June 9, runoff June 23 if no winner emerges. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/a280084c84c0301e