South Carolina voters will choose between Republican candidate David Stumbo and Democratic candidate Richard Hricik for Attorney General.

Below is a summary of the candidates’ backgrounds, priorities, and stated approaches to the office.

David Stumbo — Republican

Prosecutorial Experience
Stumbo has spent his career prosecuting criminal cases and currently serves as a circuit solicitor.

Public Safety and Crime
He emphasizes aggressive prosecution of violent criminals and gang activity.

Support for Law Enforcement
Stumbo has emphasized support for law enforcement and has pledged to defend qualified immunity for officers acting within the scope of their duties.

Constitutional and Legal Philosophy
He emphasizes defending the Constitution and South Carolina law and limiting government overreach.

Business and Legal Environment
Stumbo supports legal reforms intended to make South Carolina’s legal environment more predictable for businesses.

Primary Priorities
His stated priorities include public safety, law enforcement, prosecution of criminals, constitutional principles, and conservative values.

Richard Hricik — Democrat

Legal Experience
Hricik has more than 30 years of experience practicing law, providing him with substantial courtroom and legal experience.

Consumer Protection
He emphasizes consumer-protection issues, including deceptive debt collection, surprise medical bills, prescription drug prices, scams, and financial schemes targeting families and seniors.

Corporate Accountability
Hricik’s approach places significant emphasis on consumer protection and corporate accountability, including the use of regulation or litigation involving corporations and other powerful interests.

Management Experience
The materials provided note that Hricik has not previously served as Attorney General and would be taking on management of a large statewide law-enforcement and legal operation for the first time.

Different Areas of Emphasis

The two candidates place different emphasis on the responsibilities of the Attorney General’s office.

Stumbo’s stated priorities focus more heavily on criminal prosecution, public safety, support for law enforcement, constitutional limits, and a business-friendly legal environment.

Hricik’s stated priorities place greater emphasis on consumer protection, corporate accountability, and legal action involving issues affecting families and consumers.

Voters are encouraged to review each candidate’s public statements and campaign materials for additional information about their positions and priorities.