I’m probably more like you than most people running for office these days. First of all, I’ve never run for political office before. I don’t have any dreams of using this seat as a stepping stone to some other office. I come from a family of hard-working people with strong values who instilled the same qualities in me. The things I want for the district are the same things you want for this district, to provide opportunities for people who work hard to provide for themselves and their families, to make sure that one illness or injury doesn’t completely wipe out someone’s life savings, and to protect our state’s unique natural heritage as a legacy for our children and beyond.

GROWING UP

The Upstate has always been a part of who I am. I was born in Spartanburg and lived in the Upstate, the Midlands, and Raleigh, NC, while I was growing up. My parents even told me that we lived in New Jersey when I was a toddler. I’d like to think they’re just teasing about my brief Yankee experience.

HEALTHY SCHOOLS

I graduated from Lexington High School in 1989 and have a B.S. in Computer Science from Clemson. As a product of public schools, I am particularly interested in making sure that a quality public education is available to all South Carolinians. In this global economy, we have to make sure that our children have the tools to succeed.

HEALTHY PEOPLE

Like everyone else who works hard to support their family, I know that one serious illness with my wife, one of the kids or me could be a financial disaster. Health care costs are so out of control that we live in fear of being bankrupted by having to care for our loved ones. That is wrong. The only way out of this hole is to encourage state and local involvement in lowering health care costs and expanding coverage for people who currently have no health insurance.

HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT (OUR HERITAGE, OUR LEGACY)

When I’m not working, I’m spending time with my wife and our two children, 5-year-old Jeffrey and 4-year-old Eva. One of our favorite family activities is spending time outdoors. My love and respect for the environment started at an early age. From camping with the family to attending Boy Scout jamborees, some of my fondest memories are the times I spent hiking through the Upcountry. I continue to expose my kids to the natural wonders of South Carolina. The lakes, streams, and mountains of this district are a part of our common heritage. We must be good stewards of the land if we are to pass this legacy on to future generations.