WH

Candidate for Governor

Walid Hakim

Green

Hakim is the Green Party nominee for governor. Born in Kuwait to an American mother, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps when Iraq invaded Kuwait, and he has previously been affiliated with the Republican and Democratic parties and briefly explored the Libertarian Party. His proposals include a statewide high-speed rail system, year-round schooling, a government-backed insurance program and audits of every state agency.

Current or most recent role
U.S. Marine Corps veteran
Running mate
Arnold E. Karr (Lieutenant Governor)

Why they say you should vote for them

The candidate's own case to voters, summarized from their campaign and public statements.

  • Says his proposals would not require tax increases, arguing that residents already pay enough in taxes but the money is "misspent and mismanaged."[1]
  • Promises that every agency and program in his administration would be audited, including how lottery money for education is spent.[1]
  • Describes his changes in party affiliation as an evolving perspective.[1]

Background

  • Green Party nominee for governor, South Carolina Green Party · 2026[1],[2],[3]
  • Served in the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Marine Corps[1]

Where they stand

  • Infrastructure
    Proposes a statewide high-speed rail system for passengers and cargo.[1]
  • Education
    Proposes a year-round approach to public education.[1]
  • Health Care
    Proposes a government-backed insurance program, with most plans free or low-cost.[1]
  • Immigration
    Opposes the militarization of agencies such as ICE and says they do not "have a place in South Carolina," arguing the state does not have an immigration problem.[1]

Voting record

Walid Hakim has not held an office with a recorded voting record. See Background and Where they stand.

In their words

“Nothing that I am proposing would require us to raise taxes at all.”

Interview with WCSC's We The Palmetto, October 2, 2026[1]

“I don't want to be a stubborn old man.”

On his past changes in party affiliation, WCSC interview, October 2, 2026[1]

Sources

  1. WE THE PALMETTO: A Green Governor?, Live 5 News (WCSC), October 2, 2026
  2. WATCH: Wilson, Johnson debate in race for SC governor, WBTV / WIS, October 6, 2026
  3. 2026 South Carolina gubernatorial election, Wikipedia, October 10, 2026

Last reviewed October 10, 2026. Spot an error or something missing? Report a correction.

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