West Columbia, SC — In a stunning victory, Russell Ott has claimed the seat for South Carolina’s Senate District 26, marking a new chapter in the district’s political landscape. The district, which includes parts of Calhoun, Lexington, and Richland Counties, was previously held by longtime Senator Nikki Setzler, who retired after 47 years of service.
Ott, a lifelong South Carolinian and current State Representative, ran a strong campaign, defeating Republican opponent Jason Guerry by more than 3,800 votes in the General Election. Ott’s victory is especially significant as he won in all three counties, including Lexington County, a stronghold for Republicans.
In his victory speech Tuesday night, Ott stood surrounded by family, friends, and supporters at his West Columbia campaign headquarters. “I look out across this room, and I see Democrats, Republicans, and Independents. Most importantly, I see people,” Ott said, stressing his commitment to representing everyone in District 26.
Ott had faced a tough primary earlier this year, where he handily defeated political veteran Dick Harpootlian, but his success in the General Election was a resounding endorsement from voters who are seeking a change in the way their leaders govern. With over 54% of the vote, Ott’s win shows the district’s desire for a fresh approach, one that focuses on bipartisan cooperation rather than extreme partisanship.
“We decided early on that we wanted to try something new,” Ott told supporters. “We didn’t want to play this extreme partisanship game.” He pledged to work towards bipartisan, common-sense solutions, a promise that resonated with voters across the district. Ott’s approach echoes his experience in the House of Representatives, where he was known for working across the aisle to address issues important to South Carolina’s residents.
Ott, who will be sworn into office in January 2025, is excited about the opportunity to represent District 26 in the State Senate. “I am honored and humbled to represent everyone in this district,” he said. “I will fight for the issues that matter most to our citizens and businesses.”
As Ott prepares for his swearing-in ceremony next year, the political landscape in District 26 is poised for a shift. Ott’s victory signals a desire for more pragmatic leadership, and his promise of bipartisan solutions will likely shape his approach to governing in the years to come.
