Former Clarendon County Administrator David Epperson has withdrawn from the race for South Carolina House District 64, leaving incumbent Rep. Fawn Pedalino without a Democratic challenger in the contest.
In a statement provided to The Manning Times, Epperson said he made the decision after “careful consideration and due to unforeseen conflicts with my employment."
“While I remain deeply committed to serving the people of Clarendon County, I have concluded that the timing is not right given my family priorities and professional responsibilities,” Epperson said.
Epperson had filed as a Democrat to challenge Pedalino, a Republican from Turbeville, in the District 64 race. His entry had drawn local attention, in part because of his longstanding ties to county government. Epperson previously served as both Clarendon County administrator and county attorney.
In his statement, Epperson said the decision was not made lightly and thanked those who encouraged him to run.
“I am grateful for the encouragement and support I received from community members, colleagues, and friends,” he said. “It means a great deal to me.”
He also signaled that he may seek public office again in the future.
“I remain dedicated to the continued progress of Clarendon County and I plan to position myself for future opportunities to serve,” Epperson said.
Epperson had been one of several local candidates who filed ahead of the close of the 2026 election filing period. With his withdrawal, Pedalino now appears to be unopposed in the District 64 race unless another filing or ballot change is made through the state election process.
House District 64 includes Clarendon county and portions of Sumter county.
Editor’s note: A previous version of this story incorrectly listed House District 64 as including four counties. The story has been updated to reflect that District 64 includes Clarendon and Sumter counties.
