South Carolina State House District 3

Current seat holder: Phillip Bowers.

Claiborne Linvill

Claiborne Linvill is a Democratic candidate for the South Carolina House of Representatives in District 3 (PICKENS) on the November 3, 2026 general election ballot. Certified by the South Carolina State Election Commission after filing on March 2026, Claiborne Linvill faces Phillip Bowers in a race in which Phillip Bowers is the current seat holder covering PICKENS.

Campaign site

“Elected to Pickens County Council in 2022, Claiborne has been a champion for family issues, balancing growth, and improving our local roads.” (Ballotpedia 2026 Candidate Connection Survey)
“REFORM STATE GOVERNMENT Put an end to government overreach, increase transparency and focus on priorities like improving our roads and lowering the cost of living.” (Ballotpedia 2026 Candidate Connection Survey)
“Two of my key passions are expanding high quality childcare and making South Carolina more resilient. My work on county council has allowed me to attend trainings and work with experts around the state on both of these issues.” (Ballotpedia 2026 Candidate Connection Survey)

Phillip Bowers

Phillip Bowers is an incumbent Republican member of the South Carolina House of Representatives representing House District 3 (PICKENS). According to the South Carolina Legislature official member biography, Phillip Bowers's professional background is listed as Businessman, Real Estate Investment and Leasing, Construction Mgmt and education includes Limestone College, B.A.; Southern Wesleyan University, B.S. In the 126th South Carolina General Assembly, Phillip Bowers serves on the House Education and Public Works; Government Efficiency and Legislative Oversight committees.

Campaign site

“I’m a lifelong resident of Six Mile, a graduate of Daniel High School, Southern Wesleyan University, and Clemson University. I care deeply about our community and remain optimistic about our future.” (Campaign Website)
“I have worked in private-sector business my entire life, run a small business, and served voluntarily on several policy committees and boards. That combination gives me a unique understanding of both the challenges we face and the opportunities ahead.” (Campaign Website)
“I’m a lifelong Republican, a former county chairman, and someone who believes public service should be grounded in experience, common sense, and strong community values.” (Campaign Website)