WE THE PALMETTO: Democrats predict a blue wave

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) — It’s a new year, but the script is the same: South Carolina Democrats are once again predicting a blue wave when the polls close on Nov. 3.

While previous hopes have been dashed by the deep red Republican wall that is the Palmetto State, this year could be different.

Every first-year political science student knows that the rule of thumb is that the party in power typically loses seats in midterm elections. Since Republicans control the presidency, the House and the Senate, conventional wisdom suggests some of those congressional seats will likely end up in Democratic hands.

South Carolina Democratic Chair Christale Spain believes no seat is more vulnerable than former Sen. Lindsey Graham’s. Once considered a reliable Republican post, Democrat Annie Andrews is polling just 3 points behind Graham’s sister, Darline, according to the latest Trafalgar Group survey.

“Dr. Annie Andrews is not running against Lindsey Graham. She’s running against his kid sister, who is definitely not ready for the job in any way, shape or form. I think that the political environment is working in our favor,” Spain said. “Trump is underwater with his likeability. That’s hurting Republicans in South Carolina, and Darline Graham is weighing down the ticket. Republicans are absolutely divided.”

The Senate race is where Spain is putting her highest hopes, but she also feels confident in Nancy Lacore’s chances to flip Nancy Mace’s seat in the First Congressional District. Lacore is running against Jenny Costa Honeycutt. Mace vacated the seat in an ill-fated run for governor.

In this episode of the We The Palmetto podcast, Nick Reagan gets Spain’s thoughts on where she thinks Democrats could pick up positions in a state dominated by the GOP.

Listen to the full episode anywhere you get your podcasts by searching for We The Palmetto. You can stream every episode of the Live 5 streaming service on apps like Roku or on Live 5’s YouTube page.