AFC Victory Fund Congratulates South Carolina School Choice Champions on Primary Victories
DALLAS, Texas — AFC Victory Fund today congratulated a slate of South Carolina lawmakers and school choice supporters who secured victory in the June 9 Republican primary elections.
The winning candidates include:
Rep. Bill Whitmire (HD-1)
Rep. Craig Gagnon (HD-11)
Rep. Travis Moore (HD-33)
Rep. Brandon Newton (HD-45)
Rep. Cody Mitchell (HD-65)
Rep. Chris Wooten (HD-69)
Candidates advancing to a runoff include:
Rep. Don Chapman (HD-8)
Each of these lawmakers voted in support of South Carolina's Education Scholarship Trust Fund (ESTF), helping expand educational opportunities for families across the state. Their victories confirm voters will reward candidates who stand with parents, and AFC Victory Fund was proud to take those records to voters.
The ESTF program empowers eligible families with flexible education funding for K-12 students that can be used for approved educational expenses, allowing more parents to choose learning environments that meet their children's needs. The award amount for the 2026-2027 school year is $7,634. Though the program reached its cap already this year, interested families may join a waitlist for the 2027-2028 school year.
Statement from Bill Phillips, National Director of Government Affairs, AFC Victory Fund:
"When elected officials champion meaningful school choice policies, parents respond. AFC Victory Fund was proud to ensure those records were known to voters. South Carolina parents have repeatedly made it clear at the ballot box that they want more educational opportunities for their children, not fewer.
“School choice is no longer a niche issue. It is a priority for families across South Carolina. AFC Victory Fund stands with candidates who stand up for families by supporting policies like the ESTF. We urge lawmakers across the state to address the growing waitlist and to continue expanding educational opportunities for those who need them most.”
About AFC Victory Fund:
AFC Victory Fund is a federal independent expenditure-only committee, or Super PAC, affiliated with the American Federation for Children, and is committed to defending and advancing school choice at every level of government.