Rep. Ben Hagood to Retire
Rep. Ben Hagood (Charleston) announced his retirement today. Here is the press release from Speaker Harrell’s office:
(Columbia, SC) – Representative Ben A. Hagood, Jr. (R – Charleston) announced today that he will not seek re-election this November for another term in the South Carolina House of Representatives. “I look forward to spending more time with my children during their final years of high school, and to devoting more time to my law practice,” Hagood said. Rep. Hagood is a member of the House Judiciary Committee and Rules Committee and has served Charleston County’s District 112 in the State House since 2003. Hagood also serves as chairman of the Special Laws subcommittee, the Coastal Caucus and the Governor’s Climate, Energy and Commerce Advisory Committee.“It has been a true privilege to serve in the South Carolina House,” said Rep. Hagood. “I have enjoyed working to address the many challenges we face in preserving our state’s natural resources and heritage amidst the pressures of our growing population and economy. I appreciate the opportunity to work with so many wonderful people around the state. I hope to continue working to address South Carolina’s challenges in land use and energy policy.”“Ben is a dear friend of mine and his presence in the House will be missed,” House Speaker Bobby Harrell said. “Maintaining our state’s natural beauty was paramount to Ben. His service and love for our state and her people should serve as an example to us all. Our state is a better, more beautiful place because of Ben’s service.”“Ben has been a good friend and a tireless advocate for South Carolinians,” said Majority Leader Jim Merrill. “His decision to not seek re-election is a loss to our state and I hope that he will join the ranks of public service again in the near future.”Rep. Hagood continued, “I want to thank all my constituents from District 112 who placed their trust in me to be their voice at our capitol. To all my colleagues at the State House, thank you for your support, guidance and friendship over the years. But most importantly, I would like to thank my family and friends whose love, encouragement, support and patience have made my service possible.” # # #