CRESCENT Political Notes: March 19

Filing for the June 2012 Democrat and Republican primaries opened this past Friday at Noon as federal, state, and local offices will be on the ballot this year.

Here are a few incumbents and challengers who made campaign announcements.

Senator Larry Martin (R-Dist 2-Pickens County)

“It continues to be an honor to represent the people of Pickens County in the Senate, and I am truly humbled by the support everyone in this district has given me throughout the years,” Martin said. “We have put forward many conservative reforms in the Senate that the people of Pickens County have asked for, but there is still much to do. If re-elected, I have no doubt that by serving as Judiciary Chairman, we will be able to accomplish even more for the people of this district.”

Senator Harvey Peeler (R-Dist 2-Cherokee County)

“The people of this district believe that government should tax less, spend less, and run more like a business,” Peeler said. “Not only that, we have to always be focused on ways to create more jobs and opportunity for the people of Cherokee, Spartanburg, Union, and York counties. I am focused on continuing to push for reforms that reflect our conservative values, and to make sure this district is not overlooked when it comes to directing job-creating resources like infrastructure to the Upstate.”

Representative Durham Cole (R-Dist 32-Spartanburg)

“I am running to ensure a proven conservative represents the people of House District 32,” said Representative Cole. “I want to continue the progress we have made in the House on restructuring and tax reform issues. On that front, the House just passed a conservative budget that replenishes reserve funds, provides tax relief to South Carolina’s employers, and sets aside funds to deepen the Port of Charleston.”

Representative Mike Forrester (R-Dist 34-Spartanburg County)

“I plan to knock on as many doors and speak with as many voters as I can in the fight to make our state and county a hub for economic development.” He added, “I’ve worked to bring jobs to this county through our Center for Business and Entrepreneurial Development. It allows for business growth, beta testing, and work space for new industry recruitment. Our small businesses receive help in startup and soft landings. Our goal is to be more prepared and competitive in the global market.”

Representative B.R. Skelton (R-Dist 3-Clemson/Six Mile/Central/Norris)

“It has been a great honor and privilege to serve the people of Pickens County” said Rep. Skelton. “There are still many opportunities to help our community and improve our quality of life here in our state. I hope the people of District 3 will give me the opportunity to keep fighting for them.” Rep. Skelton is a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, which oversees all taxing and spending legislation, including writing the state budget.

Representative Mike Sottile (R-Dist 112-Sullivans Island/Mount Pleasant/Isle of Palms)

“I have been honored to serve the people of District 112, and have worked hard to represent our district’s values,” Rep. Sottile said. “Our district plays a vital role in driving the economy of our state, and is an important part of our state’s tax base. I will continue to fight to make sure we are not overlooked when it comes to investment and infrastructure improvements. As well, we have advanced many ideas and measure aimed at protecting taxpayers and improving quality of life in our state. There is still much work left to do, and I am asking our district’s voters for the opportunity to continue working for them.”

Scott Stephens (R-Dist 20 — Greenville County Council)

“We need elected officials that understand the concerns of small business owners and seek to promote economic development,” Stephens said. “Officials elected to public office have a responsibility to be engaged and active in the community, and those entrusted with public office must be committed to being transparent in their activities. In this time of economic and political uncertainty, we can no longer tolerate politicians that excel in the status quo.” Stephens is running against Republican incumbent Dr. Sid Cates.

NOTE: If you are a candidate or campaign, send your announcement to input@crescentmag.com.