Gubernatorial Candidate Will Propose Tax and Wage Shifts

Dr. Michael Addison will run for South Carolina governor on a platform that includes changing state income and sales tax rates.

Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Employment

Bold flat-color editorial illustration showing a stylized capitol dome silhouette over a rural landscape, representing South Carolina government policy. — Gubernatorial candidate Dr. Michael Addison has proposed a plan to eliminate South Carolina's state income tax while increasing the sales tax as part of a 2026 campaign platform. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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In the 2026 race for South Carolina governor, candidate Michael Addison is campaigning on a platform that includes eliminating the state income tax and raising the state sales tax. His proposal aims to reshape state revenue streams and address the financial needs of the working class.

Why it matters

Addison argues that his proposed tax restructuring will effectively provide a 5% pay raise to state residents, while also seeking to address healthcare access gaps through a new telehealth program. These changes are intended to support citizens who currently struggle with the rising cost of living.

The proposed 3% increase in state sales tax is paired with the elimination of state income tax, which the campaign projects will effectively raise take-home pay by 5% for residents. The candidate also calls for a statewide minimum wage of $15 per hour.

The players

Michael Addison

A candidate for South Carolina governor representing the United Citizens Party and current chair of the South Carolina NAACP environmental committee.

The details

Addison proposes the Palmetto Public Option to leverage telemedicine for citizens who currently lack access to medical care due to high costs. Additionally, his plan includes establishing a data center task force and an AI task force, with a goal of utilizing unused federal land in rural South Carolina for data center development.

Dr. Michael Addison will seek the South Carolina gubernatorial seat in 2026.

Money Landscape

The proposal represents a significant departure from the current South Carolina tax code by seeking to eliminate the state income tax entirely. This platform highlights an ongoing debate regarding how to balance state revenue needs against the cost-of-living pressures facing households.

If enacted, these proposals would significantly alter the tax burden and wage floors for South Carolina households. Residents should track how these potential changes to sales and income taxes could affect their personal monthly budgets and long-term financial planning.

The takeaway

The proposed changes represent a fundamental shift in the state's approach to taxation and wage standards. Voters should review their own tax liabilities and income levels to understand how a transition from income-based to consumption-based taxation might affect their household finances.