Former S.C. treasurer, ‘Southern Charm’ star running for governor
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - Former state treasurer and Bravo reality TV star Thomas Ravenel announced he’s running for governor.
“I’m running for Governor of South Carolina and none of the lightweights currently in the race are going to stop me,” Ravenel posted to X. “I have a message that’s going to change not just South Carolina but the entire country.”
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Ravenel served as state treasurer back in 2007 under former Gov. Mark Sanford before reg less than a year into his term due to a federal indictment accusing him of buying cocaine for himself and his friends. He pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to 10 months in prison.
Despite being convicted of a felony offense, Ravenel is allowed to run for office. The South Carolina constitution states a person convicted of a felony is qualified to run for office once 15 years have ed since they completed their sentence or if their crime has been pardoned.
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In addition to his service for the state, Ravenel was also an original cast member of “Southern Charm,” a Bravo reality television series that follows the lives and relationships of Charleston socialites.
However, “Southern Charm” cut ties with the former state treasurer when he was arrested in 2018 after his former nanny accused him of sexual assault. He pleaded guilty to third-degree assault and battery and was made to pay a $500 fine for his sentencing.
According to his X , Ravenel is a Libertarian.
The race for governor will be held in 2026 when Henry McMaster’s term ends. McMaster recently became the state’s longest-serving governor and will have completed 10 years by the end of his term.
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In addition to his two four-year , McMaster stepped in to serve the last two years of former Gov. Nikki Haley’s second term when she was nominated to the post of U.N. Ambassador under President Donald Trump’s first term.
While they have not yet announced their candidacy, notable Republicans expected to run for governor include Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, Attorney General Alan Wilson and U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace.
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