LANCASTER, S.C. — The Lancaster County Board of Voter Registration and Elections has officially announced a special election to fill the unexpired term for the City of Lancaster Council District 05 seat. Voters in the district will head to the polls on Tuesday, April 28, 2026.
The election is being held in accordance with SC Code of Laws 7-13-190. Only registered voters residing within City Council District 05 will be eligible to participate.
Candidate Filing Information Prospective candidates hoping to fill the open seat must file between noon on Friday, February 13, and noon on Monday, February 23.
To qualify, candidates must be registered electors and residents of City Council District 05. Filing must be done in person at the Lancaster County Board of Voter Registration and Elections office, located on the lower level of the County Administration Building (101 N Main St).
A filing fee of $35 is required at the time of filing, payable by check to the City of Lancaster. Candidates are also required to file a Statement of Economic Interests and a Campaign Disclosure online with the State Ethics Commission.
Voter Registration Deadlines Residents of District 05 who are not yet registered to vote must do so by the following deadlines to participate in this special election:
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In-Person: Friday, March 27, by 5:00 p.m. at the County Elections office.
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Online: Sunday, March 29, by 11:59 p.m. at scvotes.gov.
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By Mail: Applications must be postmarked by Monday, March 30.
Early Voting and Election Day Early voting for the special election will run from April 13 through April 24, 2026. Registered voters can cast their ballots Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the Lancaster Administration Building (101 N Main St, Lower Level).
On Election Day, Tuesday, April 28, polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The following precincts and polling places will be active for this election:
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College Park & Riverside Precincts: Carol Ray Dowling Center (509 Hubbard Drive)
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Chesterfield Ave Precinct: First Baptist Church (300 S. Market Street)
Voters are reminded that they must present a valid Photo ID to vote in person. Acceptable forms of ID include an SC driver’s license, SC DMV ID card, SC voter registration card with photo, Federal military ID, or a US passport.
For further information regarding the election or absentee ballots, residents may contact the Lancaster County Board of Voter Registration and Elections at 803-285-2969.
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