Lacore, Deford face off in Democratic runoff for House seat

MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WTOC) - Nancy Lacore and Mac Deford are competing Tuesday in a Democratic runoff for U.S. House District 1, with both candidates hoping to flip the seat in November.

Both candidates are set to host watch parties later Tuesday evening.

Lacore ended primary night in first place with 36% of the vote. Deford finished six points behind her, forcing the runoff.

Candidates make final push

Lacore is a political newcomer who has spent most of her life in the military. She served 35 years in the Coast Guard, achieving the title of three-star admiral, and went on to become chief of the Navy Reserve, overseeing 60,000 soldiers.

Lacore’s role was cut short after Secretary of War Pete Hegseth fired her with no explanation, according to the script.

After election night, Lacore said the experience motivated her to run.

“I knew that I had done my job extremely well and I remained true to my oath to the Constitution, so when I left the Pentagon, I felt good,” Lacore said. “I knew my integrity was intact and I didn’t launch this campaign because I’m mad. I launched this campaign because I’m not done serving.”

Deford finished with 28% of the vote. The Coast Guard veteran is running for the House seat for the second time.

Deford served as general counsel for Hilton Head Island. During his time in the role, he secured 157 affordable housing units for the island’s workforce.

Deford recently made a campaign stop in Bluffton, where he was the only candidate to participate in a Democratic forum.

The congressional seat has historically been held by Republicans, something both candidates are looking to change in November.