State Senator Chip Campsen

I am deeply humbled and appreciative of the confidence you placed in me on Election Day. It will be an honor and privilege to represent you in the South Carolina Senate. Many challenges and opportunities lay before us, and I look forward to working with Governor Sanford and the General Assembly in addressing them.

My goal in representing you in the Senate will be to conduct myself as a statesman. Statesmanship in public service is rare, but vitally important. It is the commitment to seek understanding with diligence; and advocate justice, reason and truth with passion. Its focus is upon what is right rather than what is expedient; on what is true rather than what is perceived. It does not seek advancement of self, but advancement of ideals. Through the exercise of statesmanship civic virtues are woven into the fabric of law and culture, seasoning every aspect of our lives.

I consider my representation of you to be a sacred trust, evoking a sense of duty to serve you to the best of my ability. My prayer is for the wisdom to properly analyze issues, the discernment to make good decisions, and the courage to address our most pressing issues with grace and determination.

My request of you is for your support where we agree, an open and reasoned dialogue where we don’t, and most of all, your prayers and understanding.

Thank you,