South Carolina Democrats are in hot water following the unexpected resignation of State Representative Will Wheeler, who announced that he did not have time to represent his district after work at his law firm picked up, leaving the State House with just 34 Democrats.
For background, on January 16, 2025, State Rep. Will Wheeler (D-SC-Bishopville) announced his retirement just three days into the 2025 session, putting his party in a terrible position and telling reporters he had to “take care of myself,” albeit clarifying that he was planning on running for a judicial seat in 2026.
In a statement on the House floor, Rep. Wheeler explained that he was leaving office after eight years, saying, “I’ve come to recognize that this new path is the best way for me to continue serving the people of South Carolina while also prioritizing the well-being of my family and me and my ability to live.” He added, “As difficult as it is to leave this chamber, I know this is the right decision.”
Continuing, Rep. Wheeler said that “after deep reflection, conversation with my family, and careful consideration,” it was time for him to step down, adding, “The path for a different opportunity to serve the community and the state that I love has become clear to me.” In addition, he told reporters, “I’ve got to take care of myself this year.”
Moreover, Rep. Wheeler addressed his colleagues in the House, saying, “I want to thank each of you for your friendship, your guidance, and your unwavering commitment to improving the lives of South Carolinians,” and adding, “We all know that serving this body requires sacrifice, and it does. I mean, when you hear, you understand it, you’re gone, you’re not home, you’re doing different things, and it’s a lot. It’s been a privilege to work alongside you, and I’ve learned a lot from all of you.”
After Rep. Wheeler announced his resignation, other House Democrats expressed concern that a Republican could take the seat, with Rep. Roger Kirby, the assistant minority leader in the House, saying, “This last (election) cycle showed us there’s no such thing as a safe seat anymore.” He went on, “We’ll just have to support the Democratic candidate during the cycle and hope we’ll be successful.”
In addition, Rep. Kirby said that “every vote counts” in South Carolina, with the overwhelming majority of seats filled by Republicans, adding, “It’s not ideal, but we’ll work through it.” Furthermore, the assistant minority leader said that there is “certainly a possibility” that a Republican will take Rep. Wheeler’s seat when a special election is held.
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Moreover, after Rep. Wheeler announced his resignation, House Speaker Pro Tempore Tommy Pope (R-York) said that the representative “served with character and integrity,” telling Wheeler, “Every one of us that has served with you knows that your word was your bond,” and adding, “If Will Wheeler told you something, you could take it to the bank.”
Watch coverage of Wheeler’s resignation:
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