Staunch West Columbia conservative Christian Chris Smith running for SC Senate District 26 as a Republican

West Columbia, SC 03/28/2024 - Conservative Republican Chris Smith officially announced last fall that he is running for South Carolina State Senate District 26. With a firm commitment to traditional values and a vision for a prosperous future, Smith aims to serve the constituents of his district with unwavering dedication and integrity.

Senate District 26 was held by West Columbia attorney Nikki Setzler. Setzler was the state’s longest serving senator who announced last year that he would not run for re-election. He was the last elected Democrat to hold office and live in Lexington County.

Two Democrats have also filed to run for this seat however neither call Lexington County home. One is Richland County attorney Dick Harpootlian who represented Richard Murdaugh, Jr. who eventually was found guilty of killing his wife and son in a high profile trial in 2022. Harpootlian currently holds Senate District 20. Mandated reapportionment changed that district greatly causing him to run in District 26 this year. The other is SC House Member and farmer Russell Ott of Calhoun County. His current house district covers just a small portion of Lexington County now. West Columbia attorney Billy Oswald has filed to challenge Smith as a Republican. Oswald has run for office unsuccessfully many times before and has had a former secretary level charges of sexual harassment against him among other improprieties. (See more on that here)

Smith is a seasoned leader with a proven track record of community service. He brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the issues facing South Carolina. Throughout his career, Smith has served the people of the midlands region for over 30 years in various ministries and community projects including disaster relief efforts.

In his campaign announcement, Smith emphasized the importance of representing the values and concerns of the people of District 26. "I am honored to announce my candidacy for the South Carolina State Senate District 26," said Smith. "Now, more than ever, we need leaders who will stand up for our conservative values and work tirelessly to advance the interests of our community."

Smith is a solid conservative who has fought for pro-life issues like the Fetal Heartbeat bill. He is well known at the statehouse where he lobbies current legislative members on top issues facing our state. He does this freely without thought of compensation because he cares about what happens in our state.

Smith expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support he has received from friends, family, and supporters across the district. "I am truly humbled by the outpouring of encouragement and support," he remarked. "Together, we will work to ensure that the voices of the hardworking men and women of District 26 are heard loud and clear in Columbia."

For more information about Chris Smith's campaign for South Carolina State Senate District 26, please visit https://www.chrissmithforsenate26.com/ or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/chrissmithforsenate26.