**Jenny Costa Honeycutt holds a clear edge in trader consensus for South Carolina’s 1st Congressional District because the seat remains structurally Republican after 2021 redistricting and recent election margins of 14–17 points.** Honeycutt, a Charleston County councilwoman and lifelong Lowcountry resident, secured the GOP nomination in the June 23 runoff and benefits from outside Republican spending, including support tied to national conservative groups, plus visits from House leaders. Nancy Lacore, a retired Navy vice admiral who moved to the district in late 2025, won her Democratic runoff but faces headwinds as a newcomer in a district where Republicans have dominated since the lines changed. The candidates’ October 7 debate highlighted contrasts on affordability and local priorities, with Democratic super PACs reserving airtime to test competitiveness while most forecasters rate the race Likely or Lean Republican heading into the November 3 general election.