AGP Executive Report

Russia Sanctions: Secretary of State Marco Rubio says the Trump administration will take up to 60 days to assess the economic impact of its pause on Russia sanctions. South Carolina Sen. Darline Graham, whose late brother Lindsey championed the law, said she would prefer to keep pressure on Moscow, saying she does not trust Putin. Election Watch: Early voting in South Carolina starts Monday ahead of the Nov. 3 election. In the open 5th Congressional District race, Republican Wes Climer has raised about $1.1 million, compared with Democrat Mallory Dittmer’s $216,000. In House District 66, Jackie Terribile raised nearly three times as much as Heather Hart. Research and Farming: Clemson University will co-lead a new federal coffee and cacao research lab, with an initial $8 million commitment to support farmers and strengthen crop production. USC Oversight: The University of South Carolina received a rare USDA “critical” citation after a deer mouse died in a lab cage without food, according to a federal inspection report.

Russia Sanctions: President Donald Trump has put new sanctions on hold under a law named for late South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham, drawing criticism from lawmakers in both parties. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned the pause could embolden Russia. Campaign Trail: South Carolina’s U.S. Senate race is drawing more attention, while in the 1st Congressional District, Jenny Costa Honeycutt and Nancy Lacore clashed over the economy, data centers and guns. Lacore has outraised Honeycutt; early voting is approaching. Energy Deal Scrutiny: State lawmakers are still seeking answers about NextEra’s proposed $67 billion merger with Dominion after questioning the company’s CEO. Business and Jobs: Nephron Pharmaceuticals CEO Lou Kennedy is leaving the company she led through its move to South Carolina. Meanwhile, energyRe secured $815 million for solar projects in the state, and seven Upstate suppliers plan 200 jobs and $82 million in investment tied to Scout Motors. York County Manufacturing: Silfab Solar filed a complaint seeking to resume solar-panel manufacturing in the county.

Graham Sanctions: President Trump put a Russia sanctions law backed by late South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham on hold, citing national interest. The move came just days before the measures were due to take effect and after Trump agreed to buy Russian diesel. Senate Race: South Carolina’s contest is drawing fresh attention as early voting begins Monday. Republican Sen. Darline Graham faces Democrat Annie Andrews, with both parties making a final push for voters. Business Shake-up: Nephron Pharmaceuticals CEO Lou Kennedy left immediately; the West Columbia company named Haywood Miller interim chief. The departure follows years of questions about the drugmaker’s stability. Solar Dispute: Silfab Solar sued York County seeking permission to resume manufacturing at its Fort Mill plant, arguing a court ruling against its zoning classification should not apply retroactively. Clean Energy Investment: Developer energyRe secured $815 million for South Carolina solar projects, financing a planned 360-megawatt portfolio.

Murdaugh Retrial: Alex Murdaugh’s lawyers are seeking records about claims that police handled the missing murder weapons after Maggie and Paul were killed. His retrial is scheduled for April in Sumter County. Energy and Utilities: South Carolina lawmakers are still pressing NextEra’s CEO for answers about its proposed $67 billion merger with Dominion Energy; Charleston and Dominion also updated an agreement on underground power lines. Election 2026: Candidates in the SC-1 debate sparred over the economy, data centers and guns. In the U.S. Senate race, Darline Graham and Annie Andrews faced off in their only expected debate as polls showed a tight contest. Jobs and Business: South Carolina’s 2025 H-1B filings totaled 1,557, with a 95.8% approval rate; education employers accounted for the largest share. A new $815 million financing package will support 360 megawatts of solar projects in the state, as major employers face pressure to build a skilled workforce. Food Insecurity: Harvest Hope says demand for food assistance is up 15% from last year and distributes more than 30 million pounds of food annually across 20 counties.

Energy and Rates: NextEra’s CEO faced tough questions from South Carolina lawmakers about its proposed $67 billion merger with Dominion, including customer affordability, job growth and whether the company can be trusted after its failed Santee Cooper bid. The company says Dominion customers would receive average bill credits of about $10 a month. Election 2026: South Carolina’s Senate race remains tight, with Annie Andrews challenging appointed Sen. Darline Graham; their debate and campaigns have put affordability and the Iran war in focus. Democrat Michanna Tate also announced endorsements in her state House race, while candidates for the 1st Congressional District clashed over guns, health care and data centers. Public Safety: Prosecutors and Alex Murdaugh’s lawyers are set to dispute DNA testing and other evidence ahead of his April retrial for the murders of his wife and son. Separately, officials say a highly potent synthetic opioid has been detected in South Carolina and can evade standard drug screens. Jobs and Growth: Seven Upstate suppliers plan $82 million in investments and 200 jobs to support Scout Motors’ Blythewood plant, as workforce needs grow. Community: Marion’s library received $1.5 million in state funding for an expansion, and new state data show college enrollment and financial aid both rose.

Columbia Development: The city will show residents its draft plan for a 96-acre Congaree Riverfront District at a Nov. 2 public session, with trails, green space and gathering areas among the proposals. State Politics: South Carolina’s Senate race is tightening: Darline Graham and Annie Andrews traded attacks in their only expected debate, while Attorney General hopefuls David Stumbo and Hricik are making their cases to voters. Legal Update: Three men, including Rep. Nancy Mace’s former fiancé, have been charged in a sexual assault investigation tied to an incident Mace described on the House floor. Jobs and Investment: Seven Upstate suppliers plan to invest $82 million and add 200 jobs to support Scout Motors production. Local Oversight: Mount Pleasant approved a two-year pause on new large data centers as it reviews zoning and concerns about water and power use. Arts Leadership: The State Arts Commission board selected Ce Scott-Fitts as interim executive director, its third leadership change this month.

Sex-Crime Charges: SLED charged Rep. Nancy Mace’s ex-fiancé and two other men in a 2018 sexual-assault investigation; all three have been released on bond, and the allegations have not been proven in court. Senate Race: Democrat Annie Andrews is pressing Sen. Darline Graham to recuse herself from China-related votes, citing her husband’s work for companies that import from China. Graham denies a conflict and says her husband has no ownership stake. Attorney General Contest: Republican David Stumbo and Democrat Richard Hricik are vying to replace Alan Wilson, who is running for governor. Stumbo emphasizes his prosecutorial experience; Hricik says the office should serve the public. Campaign Trail: President Donald Trump is expected in Greenville next week for a rally with Graham, though final details are pending. Charleston Power: The city and Dominion Energy have reached a new franchise agreement, with both sides set to contribute toward burying power lines; City Council has given it preliminary approval. Jobs and Growth: Seven Upstate suppliers plan to invest $82 million and add about 200 jobs to support Scout Motors production. Domestic Violence: State Sen. Stephen Goldfinch plans to refile a bill making coercive control a felony, with Senate Judiciary Chair Luke Rankin predicting it could pass next session.

Sex-Crime Charges: Rep. Nancy Mace’s former fiancé and two associates were charged in connection with an alleged 2018 assault and recording of an incapacitated woman on Sullivan’s Island. Upstate Jobs: Seven suppliers plan to invest more than $82 million and add 200 jobs to support Scout Motors’ South Carolina vehicle production. Senate Race: Darline Graham and Democrat Annie Andrews clashed over their qualifications in their only debate; Graham also discussed data centers and local control during a Greenwood stop. School Board: Gov. Henry McMaster let Charleston County board member Darlene Roberson remain in office despite a state panel’s finding that she improperly shared confidential information. Affordable Housing: Columbia’s Grand Village project broke ground at a former motel site, bringing 30 income-based homes and a community center. State Projects: South Carolina approved rules requiring American-made iron and steel for certain state-funded construction, with exceptions for shortages or steep cost increases.

Senate Race: President Donald Trump is planning an Oct. 21 Greenville rally for Republican Darline Graham as polls show her race against Democrat Annie Andrews tightening. Andrews, meanwhile, took her affordability message to Beaufort, where homeowners raised concerns about sharply rising insurance costs. Data Center Pause: Mount Pleasant finalized a two-year moratorium on new data center development while it studies potential effects on power, water, noise and natural resources. Charleston Utilities: City Council gave first approval to a new Dominion Energy agreement that would speed up underground powerline projects and create dedicated funding; projects must secure easements within six months to stay on the list. Housing and Investment: Homeless No More broke ground on Grand Village, a $12.8 million Columbia project that will provide 30 affordable homes for families. Separately, energyRe secured $815 million for a 360-megawatt South Carolina solar portfolio.

Senate Race: Lindsey Graham and Annie Andrews clashed in their only expected debate, sparring over qualifications as the close race draws national attention. Campaigns are also taking different approaches: Democrats are emphasizing affordability, while Republicans focus on other issues. Clean Energy: Developer energyRe secured $815 million for five South Carolina solar projects totaling about 360 megawatts, backed by 25-year power purchase agreements. Health Care: Prisma Health plans to acquire 36 Novant urgent care centers statewide, adding about 500 employees; the deal is expected to close Nov. 1. Schools: South Carolina’s new school report cards show gains, with more schools earning excellent ratings and graduation rates rising. Small Businesses: Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to Walhalla businesses affected by September’s Main Street fire, which damaged 10 businesses.

Senate Race: In their only scheduled debate, Republican Darline Graham, Democrat Annie Andrews and Libertarian Kasie Whitener clashed over healthcare, the Iran conflict and Graham’s qualifications, as polls show a close contest. Schools: South Carolina’s 2026 report cards show 320 schools earning Excellent ratings, up from 270, and the highest on-time graduation rate in a decade at 87.5%; results varied across districts. Economic Development: USA Rare Earth has broken ground on a planned $1.2 billion magnet plant in South Carolina, while Charleston-area business leaders are shaping a 10-year state economic plan focused on workforce, infrastructure, housing and innovation. Ports: A previously undisclosed agreement between South Carolina and Georgia port authorities effectively ends work on the long-planned Jasper Ocean Terminal. Helene Recovery: Gov. Henry McMaster says the federal government will cover more of the costs of recovery from Hurricane Helene.

Senate Race: In their expected only debate, South Carolina’s Senate candidates clashed over the Iran war, healthcare and affordability. Republican Sen. Darline Graham defended the conflict; Democrat Annie Andrews tied it to higher fuel and farm costs, while Libertarian Kasie Whitener also opposed it. Election Guide: Early voting runs Oct. 19–31, ahead of the Nov. 3 general election. Jobs and Investment: Charleston County landed biotech firm Obatala Sciences, which plans to invest $656,000 and create 46 jobs. West Columbia manufacturer L&L Products formally opened an expanded facility and expects local employment to grow about 30%. Education: State college enrollment reached 258,027 in fall 2025, up 2.3% year over year. Fort Mill also reported 18 of its 21 schools earned the state’s top rating. Fuel Costs: GasBuddy reports the lowest regular-gas price in Lexington County was $3.58 a gallon in the week ending Oct. 3; the county average was $3.91.

Senate Race: South Carolina’s closely watched Senate candidates clashed in their only scheduled debate. Republican Darline Graham defended President Trump, Democrat Annie Andrews attacked her record and qualifications, and Libertarian Kasie Whitener criticized both parties. They sparred over Iran, healthcare, the economy and data centers, with the race tightening ahead of Nov. 3. Public Health: South Carolina has reported 670 measles cases this year, among the nation’s highest totals; its count did not rise in the latest weekly report. State Politics: State Rep. Michael Rivers was arrested and charged with pointing a gun at a political opponent’s family member at a polling location on primary day. Local Government: Fort Mill Town Council is set to consider a first reading of raises that would bring the mayor’s annual pay to $15,425 and council members’ to $10,186. Any increase would take effect after the November 2027 election. Jobs and Education: South Carolina is expanding teacher loan forgiveness and investing $10 million in recruitment and retention programs. New business announcements include CurTec’s planned $10 million Oconee County expansion and Obatala Sciences’ Charleston County operation, expected to add 46 jobs.

Senate Race: Republican Sen. Darline Graham and Democrat Annie Andrews faced off in their first and likely only debate in a surprisingly tight South Carolina contest. Graham is under pressure after a primary debate misstep, as national Republicans step up their support. Statehouse: SLED charged Rep. Michael Rivers with pointing a firearm at a person during a campaign dispute. Public Health: Advocates warn possible state funding cuts could threaten sickle-cell programs; South Carolina ranks second nationally for prevalence. The state has also recorded 670 measles cases this year, among the highest totals nationwide. Jobs and Investment: Several expansions promise new work, including a Rock Hill manufacturer’s $20 million investment and 150 jobs, and a Charleston County biotech operation adding 46 jobs.

Gamecocks Recruiting: Five-star guard Jezelle “GG” Banks, ranked No. 4 in the 2027 class, committed to Dawn Staley’s South Carolina program over Texas and LSU. Upstate Flood Risk: The National Weather Service warned of possible flash flooding across parts of the Upstate, with heavy rain threatening streams, low-lying areas and crossings. State Politics: State Rep. Michael Rivers faces a charge of pointing a firearm at a person after a campaign dispute; SLED announced the charge. Meanwhile, South Carolina’s closely watched U.S. Senate race is heading toward a debate, with incumbent Darline Graham and Democrat Annie Andrews trading attacks as national Republicans step up support for Graham. Data Center Debate: Concerns about water use and electricity costs are driving calls for lawmakers to regulate data center development in South Carolina. Teacher Benefits: The state is expanding student loan forgiveness for teachers, offering a boost to educators facing education debt.

South Carolina Politics: A tight U.S. Senate race drew national attention as President Trump urged Republicans to support Darline Graham and attacked Democrat Annie Andrews. The candidates prepared for their first debate amid close polls. Public Safety: SLED charged state Rep. Michael Rivers after an alleged gun-pointing incident during a campaign dispute, according to reports. Business and Growth: South Carolina lawmakers are examining what is driving the state’s record economic growth. CurTec plans a $10 million Oconee County expansion that will add 10 jobs, while Aiken’s $8 million airport runway resurfacing is complete. Weather: A flood watch remained in effect for parts of the Upstate through Sunday afternoon, with heavy rain raising the risk of flooding in streams and low-lying areas. Education: The state is investing $10 million in teacher recruitment and retention and expanding student loan forgiveness to help keep teachers in classrooms.