SOLID NEW SOUTH
SOLID NEW SOUTH
SOLID NEW SOUTH

HISTORICAL OVERVIEW: Impact of 2008 and 2012 Elections on Southern State Legislatures

Although the Democratic Party saw major success and gains nationally, the 2008 and 2012 elections marked a significant timestamp on the political landscape of southern state legislatures, with state parties experiencing substantial losses and a crisis of identity. These losses exacerbated a broader trend of increasing Republican dominance in the southeastern states, leaving the southern parties with significant funding deficiencies and weakened elected leadership. The results of these two cycles were a shift to even more Republican dominance in general assemblies in shaping policy decisions and legislative priorities throughout the South. Influencing factors in the Southern Shift include demographic changes, GOP campaigns focused on national wedge issues with an entwined local focus, and the financial dominance to communicate their message.

However, in-fighting among traditional business conservatives and MAGA and Freedom Caucus Republicans presents an opportunity for Southern Democrats to realign their brands and regain the political and societal center, which could result in an increase in seats and protection of seats held. With the intentional support and partnership from national organizations and notable Democratic donors and supporters, 2024 can be the year we begin to build the foundation for successful and solid Democratic gains across the South.

The shortage of campaign finances and national funding support has created a notable disparity between Republican and Democratic candidates at the state elected levels. Republicans often drastically outspend their Democratic counterparts, and as a result, crippling disparities exist related to resources for advertising, voter outreach, and grassroots organizing efforts, which ironically was once the foundation of Democratic success in Southern states. The financial advantage is a primary contributor to the GOP electoral successes and has been more impactful in competitive districts and the new ones forming because of demographic shifts across the South. The ultimate impact on Southern Democratic parties is that limited financial resources have meant limited campaign tools, tactics, and tech to invest in crucial battleground swing districts, where strategic spending can make a significant difference and result in winning the close elections needed to build a Solid South.

SOUTH CAROLINA FOCUS: Impact of the 2008 and 2012 Elections on South Carolina’s Political Landscape

The 2008 and 2012 elections marked a significant turning point in South Carolina’s political landscape, leading to substantial losses for the Democratic Party and a crisis of identity within the party. These elections exacerbated a broader trend of increasing Republican dominance in South Carolina, leaving the state’s Democratic Party grappling with major funding deficiencies and weakened leadership.

 
SOLID NEW SOUTH - SC CAMPAIGN
Election Results and Financial Disparities

The financial disparities between Republican and Democratic campaigns and the effects of redistricting have played crucial roles in shaping the current political landscape, and numbers divide. The 2008 and 2012 elections resulted in substantial Republican gains in both chambers, driven by financial advantages and strategic campaigning. New redistricting lines will also significantly shape the political landscape, potentially impacting partisan control and electoral competitiveness.

Opportunities to Build a Foundation

The Harris-Walz ticket and President Biden’s service inspire new interest and energy across South Carolina, energizing and mobilizing the Democratic base. The excitement presents a golden opportunity to galvanize support and boost turnout in critical battleground legislative districts. Through a strategic plan that uses technological campaign advancements with proven and traditional Democratic campaign tactics, there is an opportunity to leverage national Democratic star power into a surge in voter participation. By addressing critical issues that are in step with the majority of South Carolinians, engaging new and moderate voters, and countering Extremism with practical solutions, Democrats have the potential to challenge traditional expectations and achieve significant gains.