York County, September 9, 2025
News Summary
With key candidates withdrawing from the races, the upcoming mayoral elections in York County are expected to have less rivalry. Incumbent Rock Hill Mayor John Gettys will run unopposed after former York County Councilman William “Bump” Roddey withdrew for personal reasons. Similarly, Tega Cay’s incumbent Mayor Chris Gray has also stepped back, allowing Mayor Pro Tem Carmen Miller to run against challengers Alice Dobleske and John Tukker. Early voting begins from October 20 to October 31, culminating in Election Day on November 4.
Rock Hill, South Carolina – The upcoming mayoral elections in York County are expected to see reduced contention due to key candidates withdrawing from the races. As of September 5, 2025, filing for nine general elections and one special election in York County has officially closed. Initially, over 60 candidates showed interest in securing public office during the monthlong filing period.
In Rock Hill, former York County Councilman William “Bump” Roddey has withdrawn from the mayoral race, which leaves the incumbent Mayor John Gettys without any opposition. Gettys, who is seeking his third term, has previously faced Roddey in two mayoral elections, including a close contest in 2017.
Roddey’s decision to step back from the race was driven by personal and family considerations. He stated that serving the city of Rock Hill has always been a central part of his life.
In Tega Cay, incumbent Mayor Chris Gray has also decided to withdraw his candidacy, citing a desire to devote more time to his family. This has opened the field for Carmen Miller, Mayor Pro Tem, who will compete against Alice Dobleske and John Tukker in the upcoming election.
In addition to Rock Hill and Tega Cay, incumbents in the smaller towns of McConnells, Sharon, and Smyrna will be seeking re-election, though they will face challengers in their respective communities. Mayor Bill Nance of McConnells is set to contend with Bryan Jenkins, who previously challenged him in 2023.
The Rock Hill council elections are expected to be particularly competitive, with three city council positions available. Notably, one councilman will run unopposed, while Councilman Perry Sutton will face off against challenger Tyler Jackson in Ward 5. A new representative will be elected for the Ward 6 seat due to the retirement of Councilman Jim Reno, who has served for 28 years.
Tega Cay will see a competitive at-large council election with four candidates vying for two open seats. Meanwhile, Clover is ramping up for its elections, showcasing eleven candidates competing for three at-large council seats.
It is important to note that South Carolina law prohibits write-in candidates for presidential and vice-presidential positions. Early voting for these elections is scheduled to commence on October 20 and will continue until October 31. On Election Day, November 4, polling locations will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Key Features of the Upcoming Elections
- Two major mayoral races in York County are less competitive due to candidate withdrawals.
- John Gettys will run unopposed for Rock Hill Mayor.
- Incumbent Chris Gray of Tega Cay has also withdrawn.
- Carmen Miller will be running in Tega Cay against Alice Dobleske and John Tukker.
- Three city council positions will be contested in Rock Hill, while challengers are present in other towns.
- Early voting starts on October 20 and ends on October 31.
Upcoming Election Dates
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| October 20, 2025 | Early Voting Begins |
| October 31, 2025 | Early Voting Ends |
| November 4, 2025 | Election Day (Polling open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.) |
FAQs
What are the key details about the upcoming mayoral elections in York County?
Important details include that two major mayoral races are seeing reduced contention due to withdrawals; John Gettys in Rock Hill will run unopposed while Chris Gray in Tega Cay has also withdrawn. Early voting will occur from October 20 to October 31, with Election Day on November 4.
Who are the candidates in the Tega Cay mayoral race?
The candidates in the Tega Cay mayoral race are Carmen Miller, who is currently the Mayor Pro Tem, and challengers Alice Dobleske and John Tukker.
What is the early voting schedule for the York County elections?
Early voting is scheduled to start on October 20, 2025, and will end on October 31, 2025. Polling locations will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day, November 4, 2025.
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Additional Resources
- Herald Online: York County Election Candidates
- Charlotte Observer: York County Elections
- Post and Courier: Election Filing Opens
- WBTV: Rock Hill Mayoral Election
- Google Search: York County Elections
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
