Meet the candidates running in SC House District 75: Heather Bauer and Kirkman Finlay

The state House District 75 race features Democratic incumbent Rep. Heather Bauer of Columbia and Republican nominee Kirkman Finlay of Columbia.

Heather Bauer

Name: Heather Bauer

Party: Democrat

Age: 40

Occupation: ACA client manager/Benefitfocus, co-owner/Warrior Fitness and Martial Arts

Education: Bachelor’s/Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Master’s/University of South Carolina

Political or civic experience: Current representative, vice chair of Nickelodeon Theatre, board member of Vista Guild, board member of Harvest Hope Producers, board member of Columbia Design League

Campaign website: voteheatherbauer.com

Why are you running for House District 75?

I ran in 2022 to fight for women’s reproductive freedom. My opponent, Kirkman Finlay, voted to ban abortion. Finlay was recently asked about his vote to ban abortion and he said he’s fine with the current ban. I’m not. I trust women and believe the government should stay out of our bedrooms and doctor’s offices. I’m running to restore a woman’s freedom to choose an abortion. Since I took office, I have also been able to work across the aisle to promote economic development in our district, improve public education and hold elected leaders accountable. I want to continue to serve because I’ve enjoyed finding ways to get things done and believe we can do more if we have elected leaders who show up and work hard.

If elected, what would your two or three priorities be in the next Legislative session?

Jobs. The Richland Mall on Forest Drive is being demolished and will soon be a commercial hub. I helped secure funding for this project. I also worked with Republican colleagues to create the first SC trade commission with the Republic of Ireland. If reelected, I will continue to pursue growth-minded opportunities.

Infrastructure. I’ve been working with neighbors, SCDOT, Richland County, the City of Columbia and Forest Acres to identify projects to improve our infrastructure. We have fixed roads, installed sidewalks and stop signs. Making roads safer and working with all levels of government will remain a top priority.

Restoring women’s freedom. Republicans like Kirkman Finlay believe the government should decide when a woman gives birth. The abortion ban passed in 2022 effectively eliminates a woman’s right to choose by banning abortion at six weeks (before most women even know they are pregnant). The law is cruel. I’m working to restore these freedoms and repeal this law.

What do you think voters in District 75 need most and how are you going to deliver for them?

I believe our district deserves a representative who shows up, listens and works hard to get things done. We did not have that with my predecessor, Kirkman Finlay. During Finlay’s 10 years in the House, he missed 1,450 votes. That is more than 21 percent of all the votes in the House over a decade.

In 2022, when I ran, I promised I would show up and vote, especially when it’s hard. I’ve kept my word — I missed only 29 of 1,540 votes in my two years in office.

Kirkman Finlay

Name: Kirkman Finlay

Party: Republican

Age: 58

Occupation/place of employment: Farmer and small businessman

Education: Bachelor’s from University of Virginia

Political or civic experience: City council and state representative

Campaign Website: www.KirkmanFinlay.com

Why are you running for the House District 75?

I’m running because Columbia is at a crossroads and needs leadership focused on putting this community first, not outside agendas or political noise. Growing up here, I care deeply about Columbia’s future. My roots here go back generations, and I’ve come to appreciate what makes our community special — the values we share and the potential of our city. Columbia deserves a leader who understands it from the inside. I’m committed to empowering parents to make education decisions, supporting small businesses instead of bribing big corporations, and reforming government to make it accountable to you, the taxpayer. If you want a candidate focused on symbolic votes or extreme social issues, I’m not your guy. But if you believe in real progress — affordable housing, better jobs, supporting small businesses and empowering parents with more education choices — then I’m the leader you can count on. Columbia’s best days are ahead, and I’m ready to help make that future a reality.

If elected, what would your two or three priorities be during the next Legislative session?

First, we need to revitalize Columbia’s economy by supporting small businesses, the backbone of our community. Creating good-paying jobs is essential for working families struggling with the rising cost of living. As a businessman who has created over 100 jobs in the Midlands, I know how government can either help or hinder growth. I’ve fought against wasteful handouts to billionaires and believe government should create a fair environment for businesses to thrive. Second, improving public safety is critical. We must target violent criminals, protect victims and support law enforcement. Safe communities attract businesses, families and good teachers. Lastly, education reform is vital. Parents know every child has unique needs. We deserve options, and schools must be held accountable. Unlike my opponent, I support public school choice, empowering parents. I believe it’s parents — not politicians — who are best equipped to make decisions about their children’s education.

What do you think voters in District 75 need most and how are you going to deliver for them?

What voters in District 75 need most is leadership that cuts through the noise and focuses on real results. Some politicians are caught up in partisan fights — debating extreme policies like total abortion bans or radical gender agendas. I don’t support these measures and won’t waste time on them. If you want someone focused on symbolic gestures like banning plastic straws or holding meaningless press conferences, I’m not your candidate. When I commit to something, I follow through. My record shows I’m relentless in delivering real solutions — lowering taxes, cutting wasteful spending and ensuring government works better for you. Columbia has seen the results when I set a goal: I make it happen, no matter how tough the challenge. Whether it’s better roads, safer streets or job creation, I’ve earned a reputation for bulldozing through obstacles to get things done. I’ll bring that same drive to the State House, pushing for reforms that make government more responsive and accountable.