Honeycutt, Smith face off in Republican runoff for South Carolina’s 1st Congressional District

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WTOC) - Two Republicans are facing off Tuesday in a runoff for South Carolina’s 1st Congressional District as voters choose the GOP nominee for November’s election.

The seat is open after current Republican Congresswoman Nancy Mace decided to run for governor.

Former Charleston City Council member Jenny Costa Honeycutt and former state Rep. Mark Smith advanced to the runoff after a Republican primary that started with 10 candidates.

Honeycutt led the primary with 22% of the vote. Smith, a Lowcountry native and former state representative, followed with nearly 18%.

Both candidates support President Donald Trump, securing the border and affordability in the Lowcountry.

Smith pointed to his record in the State House as part of his pitch to voters.

“Winning conservative voting record that I’ve had in the State House is that same winning conservative vote you’re going to have in Washington, D.C.,” Smith said.

Honeycutt said her campaign experience sets her apart.

“I’m the only Republican in this field that’s run tough races winning in a swing council district twice,” Honeycutt said.