SUMMERVILLE, S.C. — The Berkeley County Republican Party and the Dorchester County Republican Party are teaming up to host a major candidate forum ahead of the 2026 congressional race, offering voters an early look at those vying to represent South Carolina’s First Congressional District.
The event, titled “Decision 2026: First Congressional District Candidate Forum,” is scheduled for Thursday, April 16 at 6 p.m. at the Lowcountry Conference Center, which is located at 406 Sigma Drive in Summerville. Organizers say the forum is free and open to the public, though attendees are encouraged to RSVP at this link in advance due to limited seating.
📣 STAY IN THE LOOP 📣
📰 Sign Up for Berkeley County, SC Newsletter ⬅️
The forum will feature multiple candidates seeking the GOP nomination for the First District seat.
Local media will also play a role in the event, with Live 5 News reporter Nick Reagan set to co-moderate alongside party representatives.
Focus on key voter issues
Organizers say the forum will center on major issues affecting voters across the Lowcountry and beyond, including national security, infrastructure, economic growth, immigration and the rising cost of living.
The following candidates have been invited to the forum: Dan Brown, Jay Byars, Jenny Costa Honeycutt, Logan Cunningham, Tyler Dykes, Kendal Ludden, Sam McCown, Alex Pelbath, Cindy Riley, Mark Sanford, and Mark Smith.
Member-driven format
In a departure from traditional forums, questions posed to candidates will come exclusively from active, dues-paying members of the two county Republican parties.
Organizers say the approach is designed to prioritize grassroots engagement and ensure the discussion reflects the concerns of committed Republican voters in the district.
“This forum is about putting voters first and giving them a real opportunity to hear directly from the candidates who want to represent them in Congress,” said John McGrath, chairman of the Berkeley County Republican Party.
McGrath added that the event is intended to set the tone for the race and provide a serious, policy-focused discussion.
Dorchester County Republican Party Chairman CJ Westfall said the joint effort highlights shared priorities between the two counties, including managing rapid growth, addressing infrastructure needs and preserving quality of life.
“Our counties share many of the same unique challenges—rapid growth, infrastructure demands, and preserving our quality of life — yet we are often overshadowed in congressional races that also include the vibrant communities of Charleston and Beaufort, Westfall said.
Looking ahead to 2026
The forum marks one of the first major public events in the lead-up to the 2026 election cycle for South Carolina’s First Congressional District, a race expected to draw significant attention across the region.
Organizers say the event will provide voters with an early opportunity to compare candidates and hear directly about their positions on the issues shaping the district’s future.
