Midlands, South Carolina: Polls Close Amid High Voter Turnout
Polling places across the Midlands of South Carolina saw significant activity as polls closed at 7 p.m. on Election Day. More than 130,000 residents had cast their votes in person by mid-afternoon, adding to the impressive 1.5 million ballots submitted during the early voting period. This robust turnout reflects the community’s engagement in local and state elections.
Election Details
This election featured all seven U.S. Congressional seats and every seat in the S.C. State House, highlighting the importance of these races for voters. Notably contentious races unfolded in the Midlands, particularly in District 75 where Democratic incumbent Heather Bauer aimed to retain her seat against challenger Republican Kirkman Finlay, the man she previously defeated.
In Senate District 26, State Rep. Russell Ott, a Democrat from Calhoun, was pitted against Republican businessman Jason Guerry amidst redrawn district lines. The competition indicated tight margins contributing to the overall excitement of the election.
Initial Results and Predictions
The Associated Press quickly declared Russell Ott the winner in Senate District 26, capturing 54.9% of the votes. Meanwhile, at 11:47 p.m., Heather Bauer maintained a narrow lead in her race with approximately 1,015 votes separating her from Finlay. Bauer declared victory around 10:45 p.m. even as a significant portion of votes remained uncounted, showcasing her confidence in the outcome.
In the Richland County area, voters voiced their opinions regarding a critical 1% sales tax aimed at funding road improvements and local transit services. As of 11:25 p.m., 88,026 ballots, equating to 62%, were counted in favor of continuing the tax, maintaining a steady margin throughout the night.
School Board Elections
School board elections also drew attention, particularly in large districts like Richland and Lexington Counties. A significant referendum in Lexington-Richland 5 proposed a $240 million bond issue for school improvements. Initial unofficial results indicated support was strong, with nearly 70% of the voters favoring the measure.
Richland County reported close races for school board positions as well, with Scott Herring leading in unofficial results for the Lexington-Richland 5 district’s school board. Herring garnered 34%, narrowly ahead of board incumbent Catherine Huddle, who trailed closely behind.
Final Count and Ongoing Updates
As of late evening, the results continued to be tabulated, showing that a total of 81% of precincts had reported. With the lead wavering among various contenders, the board races displayed dynamic shifts throughout the counting process. Precincts across the Midlands were diligently reporting their outcomes, ensuring every vote was accounted for.
Richland County’s results highlighted intense competition, particularly in the District 4 seat. Challenger Ericka Hursey had taken a commanding lead with 62.64% of votes against incumbent Cheryl Harris. Meanwhile, the at-large seats were noted for their close competition among the five candidates vying for positions.
This election cycle in the Midlands not only showcased local governance but also educated voters on the impacts of their choices at multiple levels, from congressional seats to school boards. With the count still unfolding at the late hour, the community remained on the edge, eager to witness the final outcomes of their votes.
