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GRAND STRAND POLITICS — Season Three Preview

The 2026 Election: Governor, U.S. Senate, and Horry County Council

Season Three of Grand Strand Politics is here — and it begins with a look ahead to one of the most important election cycles in South Carolina in years.

In this preview episode, we set the stage for our upcoming coverage of the 2026 elections — from the Governor’s race to the United States Senate contest, and right down to the critical decisions shaping Horry County.

We begin by recognizing the leadership and long public service of Henry McMaster, as his tenure continues to influence both the direction of the state and the field of candidates seeking to follow.

From there, we break down what is shaping up to be a crowded and competitive race for Governor — examining the early dynamics, the potential candidates, and what it could mean for South Carolina’s future.

We also turn to the U.S. Senate race, where Lindsey Graham once again finds himself at the center of a high-profile campaign, drawing attention both statewide and nationally.

And closer to home, we preview the upcoming Horry County Council races — where local decisions will continue to have a direct impact on growth, development, and the future of the Grand Strand.

As we launch Season Three, we’re expanding how you can stay connected:

• Join our new Substack newsletter for deeper analysis and updates
• Become part of the conversation in the Grand Strand Politics Facebook Group
• Follow along as we bring you ongoing coverage of state and local elections throughout the season

Season Three will be your front-row seat to the 2026 election — with insight, context, and the local perspective that matters most.

The campaign begins now.

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The John Bonsignor Interview with Councilman Cam Crawford (Part 8 — Season Two Finale)

Personalities and Politics (B): Rep. Mark Kelly, Governor Henry McMaster, and Closing Reflections

In Part 8 — the Season Two finale of our John Bonsignor series — we bring this remarkable set of conversations to a close with a wide-ranging discussion on public service, leadership, and the people who helped shape modern Horry County.

Joined once again by Councilman Cam Crawford, this episode explores the realities behind elected office — from the responsibilities of the job to the often-debated question of compensation — and what it truly means to serve at the local and state level.

At the center of the conversation are two towering figures:

• Mark Kelly, the former Myrtle Beach State Representative whose influence on the development of Horry County — particularly its tourism growth — left a lasting mark on the region

• Henry McMaster, widely regarded by many as one of the most consequential governors of the modern era, whose leadership and long career in South Carolina politics continue to shape the state today

But as with so many moments in this series, it’s not all politics.

In a brief and endearing interruption, Betty Sue Bonsignor makes an unexpected appearance when a television in the background suddenly comes to life at full volume — a lighthearted reminder that behind every public life is a personal one. Her quick visit — and gentle nudge to keep things moving — adds a human touch to a conversation filled with reflection.

As the episode draws to a close, each participant offers final thoughts — not just on politics, but on the man at the center of it all.

John Bonsignor.

A broadcaster. A community leader. A friend.

What follows is a heartfelt expression of appreciation for the role he has played in the lives of so many — and in the civic life of Myrtle Beach and Horry County. For a generation of political figures, Bonsignor wasn’t just a host — he was a constant, a sounding board, and a trusted voice.

This final chapter is about more than personalities and politics.

It’s about legacy.

And bringing a remarkable story — and a remarkable friendship — full circle.

Theme song is Produced by Danya Vodovoz, link to my song https://youtu.be/NRxduUMZcdw

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The John Bonsignor Interview with Councilman Cam Crawford (Part 7)

Personalities and Politics (A): Henry Brown, Russell Fry, & Alan Clemmons

In Part 7 of our continuing series, John Bonsignor and Horry County Councilman Cam Crawford take a step back for a wide-ranging, personal look at the people who helped shape modern politics along the Grand Strand.

This episode is a journey through relationships, reputations, and the individuals behind the headlines — told by those who worked alongside them, learned from them, and in many cases, helped build the political landscape we see today.

At the center of the conversation is Henry E. Brown Jr., the widely respected former congressman whose deep connection to Horry County made him a lasting and popular figure. Crawford reflects on his time serving as an aide to Brown, offering insight into both the man and the leadership style that earned him such strong local support.

We also look at the rise of Russell Fry — from his early days as a grassroots activist in Horry County politics to his emergence on the national stage.

And we revisit the career of Alan Clemmons, a longtime State Representative and former South Carolina Republican Party Chairman, whose influence on state and local politics remains significant.

In addition, we recognize Joanne Weigand, a longtime founding activist in the Republican Party whose work at the grassroots level helped build and sustain the party’s presence in the region over many years.

Along the way, the conversation expands to include a number of other notable figures — from former Myrtle Beach City Clerk Joan Grove to former Congressman Tom Rice — each contributing to a broader portrait of an era defined by strong personalities and evolving political dynamics.

Part 7 is less about events and more about people — the relationships, the stories, and the moments that don’t always make it into the official record, but help explain how politics really works at the local and regional level.

A conversation of memory, insight, and perspective — from those who were there.

Theme song is Produced by Danya Vodovoz, link to my song https://youtu.be/NRxduUMZcdw