Anderson Voters Head to the Polls as Incumbent Mayor Faces Challenger

Long-serving city council member Bea Thompson faces off against current mayor Terence Richardson in Anderson's mayoral election.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 10:37am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A serene, nostalgic painting of a deserted street corner in a small Southern city, with warm sunlight casting long shadows across the pavement and buildings.The mayoral election in Anderson, South Carolina could shape the city's political landscape for years to come.Anderson Today

Voters in Anderson, South Carolina are heading to the polls today to decide the city's mayoral race, with longtime city council member Bea Thompson challenging incumbent mayor Terence Richardson. Thompson has served on the Anderson City Council for over 50 years, while Richardson is seeking his second term as mayor.

Why it matters

The Anderson mayoral race is seen as an important test of the city's political landscape, with the long-serving Thompson representing the city's more established political class and Richardson offering a challenge to the status quo. The outcome could have significant implications for the city's future direction on key issues like economic development, infrastructure, and community engagement.

The details

Bea Thompson, a 50-year veteran of the Anderson City Council, is running to unseat incumbent mayor Terence Richardson. Thompson has touted her decades of experience and deep community ties, while Richardson has campaigned on a platform of continued progress and innovation for the city. Voters will have a clear choice between the two candidates' visions for Anderson's future.

  • Polls opened at 7:00 AM local time and will close at 7:00 PM on April 7, 2026.
  • Early voting began two weeks ago on March 24, 2026.

The players

Bea Thompson

A 50-year veteran of the Anderson City Council who is challenging the incumbent mayor.

Terence Richardson

The incumbent mayor of Anderson, South Carolina, who is seeking his second term in office.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Be patient, follow the voting signs, call our office if there are any questions and if the voter has any concerns or questions in general, give us a call.”

— Terence Richardson, Mayor of Anderson

What’s next

The results of the Anderson mayoral election are expected to be announced later tonight after the polls close at 7:00 PM local time.

The takeaway

The Anderson mayoral race represents a clash between the city's long-standing political establishment and a challenger promising a new vision for the community. The outcome will shape Anderson's future direction on key issues and could have broader implications for the region's politics.