The district includes the two major cities of Greenville and Spartanburg.

In the late 20th century, it has been in Republican hands since 1979, aside from a six-year stint by Democrat Liz J. Patterson, the daughter of former Senator Olin Johnston.

Even before the Republicans finally took control of the seat, the 4th had been a rather conservative district.

Like in most of the state, the old-line Southern Democrats began splitting their tickets as early as the 1940s.

Republican William Timmons has represented the district since January 3, 2019.