News Summary
Voters in Spartanburg County are gearing up for significant elections on November 4, with mayor and city council positions at stake and a contested race for the commission of public works. Mayor Jerome Rice is seeking reelection against James A. Jones, while Councilman Jamie Fulmer faces challenger Dawn Maddux. Additionally, four candidates are vying for the vacant City Council District 2 seat. High voter engagement is anticipated, with early voting already showing substantial turnout, as community members look to influence local governance.
Spartanburg, South Carolina – Spartanburg County voters are preparing for an important election on November 4, as local leaders face challengers in various races. The filing for the city’s general election closed on August 15, and the upcoming elections promise to play a significant role in shaping the community’s leadership.
Mayor Jerome Rice is seeking reelection for a second term, contending with challenger James A. Jones. Meanwhile, Councilman Jamie Fulmer is also running for a third term against contender Dawn Maddux. Both races are pivotal as they could influence policy decisions and community initiatives in Spartanburg.
In addition to these high-profile races, there is considerable interest surrounding the vacant City Council District 2 seat, left open by the resignation of former Councilman Rob Rain after he accepted a position with the S.C. Ports Authority. Four candidates are vying for this position: J. Patrick Anderson, Leslie Rodgers, Dr. Josh Summers, and Jeff Parks.
On another note, Council members Janie Salley and Erica Brown, who represent Districts 5 and 6 respectively, are not facing any challengers this election cycle, thus securing their positions for another term. Additionally, it is noteworthy that two city council seats, District 1 and District 3, will not be up for election this year.
The race for the commission of public works also draws attention, with three candidates – Octavia Amaechi, Mike Fowler, and Dillon Swayngim – in the running. This election will be nonpartisan for city offices, which means there will not be primaries as seen in the county elections.
Alongside the city elections, Spartanburg County will conduct a GOP primary on August 5 in anticipation of upcoming races for a new sheriff and a council member for District 3. The sheriff’s primary is particularly significant following the resignation of former Sheriff Chuck Wright, which has resulted in a nine-candidate race. The District 3 council seat became vacant due to David Britt’s departure to the Public Service Commission.
Voter engagement is expected to be high, as early voting for the sheriff’s primary has already witnessed substantial turnout, with 3,776 votes cast by July 30. County Registration and Elections Director John Baucom has noted an unusual number of unscheduled partisan elections occurring this year, which adds to the overall electoral climate.
As the election day approaches, it is essential for voters to be aware of the requirements. They must present a valid photo ID when they arrive at the polls, which will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on November 4. With the municipal elections focusing on key positions such as the mayor and four city council seats, residents have the opportunity to influence community development, strategic planning, and overall governance in Spartanburg.
The mix of incumbents and challengers, along with the pressing issues on the ballot, sets the stage for an engaging electoral season in Spartanburg County.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
California’s Bold Move: Newsom Proposes Controversial Redistricting Plan
Runoff Election Scheduled for Spartanburg County Council
Students Return to School in Spartanburg with Enthusiasm
South Carolina Claims Top Spot as Fastest Growing State
Local Artist Critiques Sheriff with New Merchandise
Hope Blackley Enters Race for South Carolina Senate Seat
Lindsey Graham Campaigns for Senate Seat in Spartanburg
Candidate Forum Scheduled for Spartanburg County Council Race
Paul Abbott Wins Republican Primary in Spartanburg County Council Race
Senator Ruben Gallego Advocates Against Trump’s Tax Bill in Iowa
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Running for City Spartanburg Council Mayor
- GoUpstate: Abbott, Lynch Look to Improve Results
- GoUpstate: Special Election Set to Fill Empty Seat
- Wikipedia: Main Page
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Main Page
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
