05/31/2026
Today, I was accused of being a "career politician," and I would like to address that directly.
My career has not been in politics—it has been in service.
I joined the United States Marine Corps while I was still in high school. After completing my service in the Marine Corps, I enlisted in the South Carolina Army National Guard. While serving in the Guard, our nation experienced the attacks of September 11, 2001. In response, I returned to active duty and continued serving our country in the fight against terrorism and in defense of the freedoms we all cherish.
After more than 20 years of military service, I retired in April 2020.
Service has never been something I turn on and off based on a job title. Throughout my life, I have looked for opportunities to help others whenever and wherever I could. In addition to my military service, I have participated in multiple mission trips to developing countries, working alongside local communities to provide assistance, support community projects, and improve the lives of people facing significant challenges. Those experiences reinforced my belief that service is about helping people, regardless of where they live or what circumstances they face.
Retirement did not mark the end of my commitment to service. Instead, I transitioned into serving those who had served alongside me. I dedicated myself to helping veterans and their families receive the benefits, support, and recognition they earned through their sacrifices.
In 2022, following the unexpected passing of the Director of Spartanburg Veterans' Affairs, the position became available. Several qualified individuals applied, and I was humbled and honored to be selected to lead the office. Since then, I have worked every day to ensure that Spartanburg County veterans and their families receive the highest level of care, service, and support possible.
If defending our nation, protecting freedom, serving veterans, supporting military families, helping communities in need around the world, and investing in our local community makes me a "career politician," then perhaps we need more people willing to dedicate their lives to service.
I have also heard comments suggesting that because I am active on Facebook and frequently answer questions from constituents, I must be spending large amounts of money on my campaign. That simply is not true.
To date, my campaign has spent less than $3,000. More than $900 of that was the required filing fee. The remaining funds have primarily gone toward yard signs, business cards, and refreshments for a community Meet & Greet event. I have not spent thousands of dollars on mass mailers, automated text messaging campaigns, extensive advertising, or boosted social media posts like many campaigns do.
I have intentionally run a grassroots campaign focused on accessibility, transparency, and direct engagement. I believe the people of Spartanburg County should choose their representative based on character, qualifications, and commitment to service—not based on who can spend the most money.
If you have questions, I answer them. If you have asked to meet with me, I have either done so or made every effort to do so. If you want to know where I stand on an issue, ask. I welcome honest conversations and respectful dialogue.
What I ask in return is simple: take the time to get to know me before making assumptions about who I am or what I stand for.
My personal page is public. My LinkedIn profile is public. My campaign page is public. I have nothing to hide, and I am proud of my record of service.
I would love to earn every vote, but I also understand that no candidate can be everything to everyone. We all have different priorities, perspectives, and opinions. That is part of what makes our community strong.
If, after getting to know me, you believe I am the right person to represent District 5, I would be honored to earn your vote for Spartanburg County Council.
My commitment has always been simple: serve others, put the community first, and work every day to make Spartanburg County a better place for all of us.
