Lexington County Moves to Require Partisan School Board Elections

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The South Carolina Senate has quickly passed a bill that would require school board candidates in three Lexington County districts to run in partisan primary elections before appearing on the general election ballot. The bill, introduced by freshman Senator Carlisle Kennedy, has raised concerns about reducing voter participation and pushing candidates to the political extremes to appeal to primary voters.

Why it matters

This legislation is part of a broader effort by Republicans in South Carolina to inject more partisanship into traditionally non-partisan school board elections. Proponents argue it will give voters more clarity on candidates' values, but critics say it will diminish voter participation and lead to more ideologically-driven school boards.

The details

The bill, S.1020, would force school board candidates in Lexington County's Districts 1, 2, and 4 to run in partisan primaries before appearing on the general election ballot. This would mark a significant change, as school board candidates currently get an automatic spot on the November ballot without having to win a party primary. The bill was introduced on Tuesday, given second reading on Wednesday, and passed third reading on Thursday - all with minimal debate on the Senate floor.

• The bill, S.1020, was introduced in the South Carolina Senate on March 23, 2026.
• The Senate gave the bill second reading on March 24, 2026.
• The Senate passed the bill on third reading and sent it to the House on March 25, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The bill now heads to the South Carolina House of Representatives, where Lexington County representatives will decide whether to pass or kill the legislation.