Ott, Harpootlian to Square Off for State Senate Nom After Setzler’s Retirement

Lexington, South Carolina: Big political shifts are underway as State Representative Russell Ott (D-Calhoun) joins the race to fill the Senate seat vacated by longtime State Senator Nikki Setzler (D-Lexington), setting up a Democratic primary showdown.

Following Setzler’s decision to retire after 47 years of service, Ott and State Senator Dick Harpootlian (D-Richland) are now set to face-off across the heavily Republican Lexington district.

Ott Announces Candidacy

On February 13, Ott declared his intent to run for the newly redrawn District 26 seat which extends across parts of Lexington, Aiken, Calhoun, and Saluda counties. Standing outside the Statehouse, Ott expressed his readiness to take up the mantle and work towards the betterment of the district.

“I understand what we’re up against. I know that my opponent is gonna say all kinds of different things,” Ott said. “But at the end of the day, we’re going to bring forward a positive message that’s gonna resonate with the folks of this district.”

Opponent Harpootlian’s Reaction

Ott’s opponent, Harpootlian, has been critical of Ott’s stand on women’s healthcare, an issue Ott says has been used as a wedge within the state for a long time.

Ott was clear about his stance, sharing that he has been consistent in his beliefs and is ready to stand up his history on supporting women’s health against anyone’s attacks. Harpootlian, however, did not respond to requests for additional comments.

Funding the Campaign

When questioned about how he plans to finance his campaign against wealthy opponent Harpootlian, Ott did not disclose the estimated campaign cost. Instead, he assured that they will raise the necessary funds to run an efficient campaign, emphasizing that the cost of campaigns, while a major issue in politics, should not deter potential candidates from running.

Ott’s Political Background

Ott’s political career spans over a decade, serving in the state House of Representatives for District 93. Reflecting on his experience, Ott shared that when he heard of Setzler’s retirement, he felt compelled to serve the people of the newly redrawn district.

The candidate also took the time to extol incumbent Senator Setzler’s commitment to teamwork, saying “the incumbent has always done it the right way and has shown that working together is what will move the state forward.”

Ott’s Vision for District 26

Ott highlighted the diversity of the new district which ranges from cornfields to high rises. He expressed his commitment to reaching out to constituents and understanding their needs. “It will take somebody who is willing to get out there, knock on doors and find out what the district needs,” he said.

Maintaining a Strong Economy

Ott’s campaign priorities included a strong focus on maintaining a robust economy with well-paying jobs, making streets safer, supporting public education and affordable healthcare, investing in infrastructure, and safeguarding the environment.

Working to reduce the increasing cost of living for South Carolinians, Ott suggested implementing government reform and increasing transparency as potential solutions. His overarching campaign message is centered around working for real people, with the slogan “He’s one of us.”

Ott emphasized that the people of District 26 deserve a senator who understands their values and needs, and pledged his commitment to advocating for small businesses and the middle class. His objective is to ensure that the votes in the Statehouse directly and positively impact the lives of the people who he represents.