Nancy Lacore Advances in SC Democratic Runoff Election

Nancy Lacore, a former three-star Navy Admiral, is heading to a Democratic runoff in South Carolina's 1st Congressional District after advancing from a crowded primary field. The runoff is scheduled for June 23, where she will compete against fellow Democrat Mac Deford.

Lacore, who spent 30 years in the U.S. Navy, rose to the rank of Vice Admiral and later served as Chief of Navy Reserve.

Her military career ended when she was among several senior officers removed by Pete Hegseth in August. Lacore has focused her political campaign on veteran issues and has received support from organizations such as EMILY's List, which backs pro-choice Democratic women candidates.

Mac Deford, a former local government attorney and U.S. Coast Guard veteran, has the endorsement of former Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley and the South Carolina AFL-CIO.

Despite the competitive primary, analysts note that the district strongly leans Republican, with the general election expected to be challenging for the Democratic nominee.