Mark Smith, a sitting South Carolina state representative with deep Lowcountry roots and established name recognition in the district, leads the June 9 Republican primary for the open SC-01 seat with 74% implied probability. His campaign has benefited from early straw poll leads, competitive fundraising, and local endorsements that highlight his legislative record and community ties. Alex Pelbath, a retired Air Force colonel emphasizing military service including the final Kabul evacuation mission, sits second and has gained visibility by pressing Smith in recent debates on issues like redistricting and voting records. The remaining candidates trail due to lower name recognition and fundraising, leaving the race centered on Smith's incumbency advantage versus challengers' efforts to consolidate anti-establishment or military-focused support before primary voting.