COLUMBIA – Election Day excitement amid rain
The clouds may have hung heavy over Columbia, but they certainly didn’t dampen the spirits of voters heading to the polls on November 5th. As rain showers danced down from the sky, nearly 200,000 early voters were joined by last-minute decision-makers to cast their ballots in this year’s 2024 General Election.
A Close Race for House District 75
Among the hotly contested local races is the face-off for House District 75 between current State Representative Heather Bauer, a Democrat from Columbia, and former state Representative Kirkman Finlay, a Republican from Columbia. It’s a showdown that promises to keep everyone on the edge of their seats!
With over 73 percent of votes counted, Bauer is leading the charge with about 53 percent of the vote compared to Finlay’s 47 percent. This is a hot comeback story for Finlay, who lost his seat to Bauer two years ago by a razor-thin margin of just 1.6 points. Will he be able to reclaim his spot in the Statehouse?
Voter Sentiment and Key Issues
The atmosphere at the polls was charged with enthusiasm, as voters filled out their ballots for everything from the presidency to local sheriff positions. The election has become a pivotal moment for the future of various issues in the region, especially when it comes to education.
Both candidates have turned their focus to the Richland One school district, a district tangled in controversies that have caught the eye of the S.C. Department of Education. Finlay has been vocal against its leadership and is pushing for school choice policies. In contrast, Bauer is advocating for accountability within the district.
Campaign Finances Heat Up
The campaign battle has been fierce, with claims flying back and forth about finance and transparency. According to recent data, Bauer has raised a whopping 40 percent more in campaign funds than Finlay, bringing in around $200,000 compared to his opponent’s $138,000.
Other Midlands Races
Meanwhile, in Senate District 26, Democratic candidate Russell Ott claimed victory over Republican Jason Guerry, reported to have won by a solid 10 point margin. Ott expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating, “I’m feeling unbelievably appreciative and grateful to a whole lot of people.”
The race has been particularly spirited, with Ott taking over the seat previously held by long-serving Democratic Senator Nikki Setzler, who announced in January that he would not seek a 13th term. Can you believe he served for 48 years? That’s a lifetime in politics!
Updating Results in Nearby Contested Districts
Just next door, tensions have mounted as Mike Fanning, the incumbent Democratic state senator of District 35, faced an exceedingly narrow loss to Republican <Everett Stubbs. With just a 34 vote difference, the narrow lead is paving the way for an upcoming recount, keeping everyone in suspense!
The close races we’re seeing are indicative of changing political tides in traditionally blue districts. As voters continue to shift their loyalties, all eyes will be on these important races moving forward.
The Road Ahead
While voters braved the rain to make their voices heard, the outcome of these elections will undoubtedly set the stage for upcoming legislative sessions. From issues like education to campaign funding transparency, it’s clear this election has sparked conversations that could shape the Midlands for years to come.
As the final results trickle in and recounts loom, Columbia’s political scene remains charged with anticipation, and the snappy back-and-forth between candidates will no doubt continue to keep everyone on their toes. What a time to be alive in the heart of South Carolina!
