As last-minute voters rushed to the polls, one Columbia man didn’t quite make it

While early voting saw a record 330,500 strong turnout and long lines in South Carolina’s 2026 primary election, not every voter ran to the polls.

Columbia attorney Jay Elliot, 77, who cut it close at 6:48 p.m. but after waiting “about 37 seconds” in line at Sims Park in Shandon, was able to cast his ballot after making sure he did his research about the candidates.

“I’m usually pretty informed,” Elliot said. “I didn’t inform myself adequately enough.”

Fellow Columbia resident James Scheinder wasn’t so lucky. He arrived just after the 7 p.m. poll closing time and was denied entry.

“I just ran out of time today,” Schneider said. “I came straight from work, grabbed a shower and came here.”

Schneider said if runoff elections end up being held on June 23, he’ll make sure to cast a ballot.

“I’m already registered,” Schneider said. “If it’s two weeks, then I’ll come.”