Lt. Gov. Evette Campaigns in Pickens After Skipping Debate

Evette cites scheduling conflicts as reason for missing recent gubernatorial debate.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:34am

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A cinematic painting of a lone political figure standing on a sun-drenched street corner, conveying a sense of solitude and contemplation.In a departure from traditional campaign tactics, Lt. Gov. Evette focuses on direct voter outreach over debate appearances.Pickens Today

South Carolina Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette is continuing her campaign tour in Pickens County after deciding not to participate in a recent gubernatorial debate. Evette has reiterated her reasons for skipping the debate, citing scheduling conflicts and a focus on meeting directly with voters in the region.

Why it matters

Evette's decision to forgo the debate has drawn some criticism, as debates are seen as an important platform for candidates to share their platforms and engage with voters. However, Evette maintains that her time is better spent connecting with constituents in Pickens and other parts of the state.

The details

During her Pickens County campaign stop, Evette met with local business owners and community leaders to discuss issues important to the region. She emphasized her commitment to supporting small businesses, improving infrastructure, and addressing the opioid crisis, which has significantly impacted many rural communities in South Carolina.

  • Evette skipped a recent gubernatorial debate on April 1, 2026.
  • Evette is continuing her campaign tour in Pickens County on April 3, 2026.

The players

Pamela Evette

The current Lieutenant Governor of South Carolina, who is running for governor in the upcoming election.

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What they’re saying

“My schedule simply did not allow me to participate in the debate, but I remain committed to meeting directly with voters across the state to hear their concerns and share my vision for South Carolina.”

— Pamela Evette, Lieutenant Governor of South Carolina

What’s next

Evette is expected to continue her campaign tour in other parts of the state in the coming weeks, leading up to the gubernatorial primary election.

The takeaway

Evette's decision to skip the debate has sparked some controversy, but she maintains that her time is better spent connecting with voters in person. This strategy reflects a broader trend of candidates seeking more direct engagement with constituents, rather than relying solely on traditional debate platforms.