On Tuesday, June 25th, 2024, residents of South Carolina’s Senate District 22 will once again go to the polls to vote for a new senator. The ballot features two prominent Black Democratic candidates vying for the position. One is a solid Democratic figure committed to restoring and working to indemnify the people of Senate District 22, while the other is perceived by many as focused on self-promotion.
Senate District 22 is a large district with more than 100,000 inhabitants, spanning Richland, Fairfield, Kershaw, and Lexington Counties. Positioned in the Midlands, many households are experiencing record growth in both income and development. However, there is significant concern about future opportunities for native residents, particularly Black residents, as the district faces rapid development. This includes the incoming Scout Motors electric vehicle manufacturer, one of the largest industrial projects in Richland County and the Midlands in a generation.
I had the opportunity to be with Senator Mia McLeod, the current incumbent, at a meeting where the community heard from Scout Motors representatives about their intentions. Senator McLeod used her platform to emphasize the importance of connecting the citizens of Senate District 22 to the necessary information and resources to ensure they are not overlooked.
Senator Mia McLeod is a staunch progressive with a very independent philosophy, which led her to leave the establishment Democratic Party.
Fast forward to one week prior to the upcoming runoff, I had the pleasure of visiting Rehoboth Missionary Baptist Church in Northeast Columbia, just off Hardscrabble Road. Reverend Dr. Ivory Torrey Thigpen, the Senior Pastor, delivered a powerful message to a packed church. Dr. Thigpen reminded his congregation of the importance of remembering who God is in our lives and how God will always provide for us, even though we often lose sight of this and falter. He also encouraged his congregation to get out and vote, emphasizing the importance of participating in the democratic process to ensure a brighter future for generations to come.
Dr. Thigpen serves as the Chair of the South Carolina Legislative Black Caucus, though support from caucus members for his senatorial endeavors appears to be limited. When I asked Dr. Thigpen why some members of his own caucus may not have turned out in support, he explained that there are Democrats in the State House more focused on their personal goals of becoming political superstars and achieving mainstream politics. These individuals often break ranks to appease Republicans for modest deals, resulting in the consistent loss of necessary resources and the failure to dismantle status quo politics backed by special interests and dark money.
This is particularly problematic as caucus members have been embroiled in scandals and corruption probes, signaling to the public that Democrats are struggling to maintain cohesion. Good leadership often requires doing what is unpopular but right for the people, and Dr. Thigpen has exemplified this since 2016 for House District 79. He has been a steadfast leader against gun violence, poverty, and the disenfranchisement of marginalized groups. Despite the inner workings of establishment Democrats and special interests, Dr. Thigpen has consistently stood his ground to protect the interests of the people.
On Saturday, June 22nd, 2024, at the Juneteenth Celebration in Blythewood, Overture Walker took to the stage to ask for votes in the upcoming runoff. His message fell flat, leaving many in the crowd disenchanted. Jamal Brooks remarked, “That dude is not for the people. Time and time again he does what's in his best interest; we barely see him anywhere.” Ms. Anette, a longtime resident of Blythewood, added, “Walker voted to give guns a tax break.”
FN America is a global firearms manufacturer that has been producing weapons in Richland County since the 1980’s. On Wednesday, May 2, 2023 Richland County Government published a press release citing FN America, LLC is a “valued partner to the U.S. Department of Defense, developing and manufacturing small arms for the U.S. military and its allies.”
Walker was quoted as saying, “FN America has been an asset to Richland County and the U.S. military since 1981. We are excited to witness this company’s continued growth, which points to the capable workforce in our community. FN America’s expansion is a win for Richland County.”
Many are also concerned about Walker’s lack of interest in decriminalizing recreational marijuana or creating a pathway to legalization. This stance contrasts sharply with other reputable Black leaders like Governor Wes Moore of Maryland, who pardoned 175,000 cannabis-related cases, many involving people of color, recognizing the disenfranchising effects of criminalizing marijuana. Walker is a former city prosecutor and assistant city attorney for the City of Columbia, where he prosecuted criminal cases.
Dr. Thigpen continues to advocate in the State House to protect all South Carolinians, whether it be decriminalizing cannabis or protecting trans rights. He has consistently championed freedom, liberty, and justice for all people, regardless of their political or religious affiliation, socioeconomic status, or other factors. His voting record is consistent with progressive ideologies that benefit South Carolinians. Check his: Voting Record
Statehouse Rally in support of South Carolina TeachersPhoto byIvory Torrey Thigpen
As we head to the polls on Tuesday, June 25, it is imperative that all citizens consider the kind of representation they want in Senate District 22. We need leaders who will help restore and indemnify the people in these communities and across the state, not just those affiliated with status quo politics.
It is crucial to choose members of the Senate and the House who will ensure equitable growth and resources for everyone, addressing issues like crime, homelessness, and community support. Dr. Thigpen has demonstrated that when the community steps up with usable information and real issues, he stands with them. He has marched with the people, consistently voted in our best interests, and advocated for the marginalized. I urge everyone to show up on Tuesday and use their vote as their voice to signal to the State House the kind of leadership we need to move us forward.
While many of you may not like politics, it's important to know that politics affects you.
Learn more about where and how to vote by visiting: SCVOTES
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