Tommy Stringer (Rep. District 18)
I am grateful to Sen. DeMint for his leadership in the Senate and his unassailable commitment to conservative values. He will be sorely missed.
Though a small state, South Carolina has historically enjoyed tremendous power in the United States Senate because of the accumulated seniority of our Senators. We are now losing part of that power.
Speculation abounds on who Gov. Haley will appoint to fill the seat until the 2014 election. South Carolina has a deep bench of young conservatives who can continue Sen. DeMint's legacy.
Gov. Haley must choose a strong conservative who understands the historical nature of the office, a person who values the seat for the good of South Carolina, and who will not use the seat for personal political advancement.
Rep. Trey Gowdy (SC-4)
Jim DeMint was more than a congressional colleague. He has been a friend dating back to 1998 when I met him during his initial run for congress. He has been a mentor for scores of conservatives at all levels of government. He is simply put one of the most decent, kind, humble men I have ever been privileged to know. I wish he and Debbie joy in this new role.
"I know Governor Nikki Haley will make the decision that is best for South Carolina, and I pray the Lord will give her wisdom. There are scores of talented women and men in South Carolina who are qualified to be considered. I hope she will consider my four congressional colleagues Tim Scott, Mick Mulvaney, Jeff Duncan, or Joe Wilson.