State Representative Mark Smith holds a commanding lead in the South Carolina 1st Congressional District Republican primary, reflecting his early fundraising dominance of nearly $727,000 raised with $548,000 cash on hand as of late March 2026 and a first-place finish in the April 17 GOP forum straw poll at 34.1 percent. His incumbency in the state House, extensive local endorsements, and emphasis on experience and results have consolidated support among primary voters seeking continuity after Nancy Mace's decision to run for governor. Jenny Costa Honeycutt and Alex Pelbath remain viable challengers with recent entries and strong name recognition in coastal areas, though trailing in cash and polling momentum. The June 9 primary outcome will hinge on turnout in key Lowcountry counties and any late endorsements that could shift the race before ballots are cast.