Rear Admiral Nancy Lacore Announces State Rep. Leon Stavrinakis Endorsement as Runoff Coalition Continues to Grow
Press Release | June 12, 2026CONTACT:Kaylie Haberstroh | kaylie@nancylacore.com
“Nancy is focused on the issues that matter most to Lowcountry families, and she's running a positive, solutions-oriented campaign."
MOUNT PLEASANT, SC — Today Rear Admiral Nancy Lacore announced State Representative Leon Stavrinakis’s endorsement of her campaign in the Democratic Primary Runoff for South Carolina’s First Congressional District, her third endorsement in the three days that have followed the June 9 Democratic Primary.
"Nancy Lacore is exactly the kind of leader the Lowcountry needs in Congress right now,” said Rep. Stavrinakis. “She brings a lifetime of service, proven leadership, and a track record of getting results. Just as importantly, she offers us our best opportunity not only to win this seat, but to hold it. Nancy is focused on the issues that matter most to Lowcountry families, and she's running a positive, solutions-oriented campaign. I'm proud to support her and ask others to join me in voting for Nancy Lacore.”
Earlier this week, Lacore was endorsed by former opponent Francina Dantzler, who was the third place finisher in Tuesday’s primary, and State Representative Spencer Wetmore, who commended Lacore for her “focus on the issues instead of attacking her opponent.” Both endorsements were announced within 48 hours of polls closing on Primary night, signaling momentum for the Lacore campaign heading into the June 23 runoff election.
Lacore finished first in Tuesday’s Democratic Primary with a commanding lead over six other competitors on the ballot. She is the only candidate left in this race with the ability to put together the resources and coalition necessary to flip this seat in November.
“I am very proud to have Lowcountry leaders like Rep. Leon Stavrinakis join the team ahead of the runoff election,” said Lacore. “This is the campaign that has the broad coalition of support it takes to flip SC-01 blue this cycle, and I look forward to working with local leaders like Rep. Stavrinakis to deliver for the Lowcountry when I’m in Congress.”
Lacore launched her campaign earlier this year and raised over $1 million within her first ten weeks on the trail. After 35 years of service in the United States Navy, a career beginning as a helicopter pilot and ending as a three-star Admiral and Chief of Navy Reserve, Lacore was removed from her post by Pete Hegseth with no explanation. She decided to continue her service to our country in Congress.
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