HEADLINE: South Carolina Democratic Primary Launches: President Joe Biden Takes Center Stage, Competing Against Dean Phillips and Marianne Williamson.
KEY FACTS:
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South Carolina polls opened at 7 a.m. EST, set to close at 7 p.m., with eligibility for voters in line at closing time.
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Unlike other states, South Carolina allows voters, regardless of party affiliation, to participate in presidential primaries, though individuals can only partake in one primary.
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Initial results are anticipated shortly after poll closure, consistent with the timing of the 2020 Democratic primary, which saw Biden emerge victorious over Sen. Bernie Sanders.
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According to a recent Emerson College poll, Biden maintains a commanding lead, with a 64-percentage point advantage over Phillips, who is expected to secure approximately 5% of the votes, while Williamson trails with an estimated 3%.
CRUCIAL QUOTE: During a recent visit to Columbia, Biden conveyed appreciation to South Carolina voters, stating, “You’re the reason Donald Trump is a defeated former president. You’re the reason Donald Trump is a loser.”