Julie Zimmerman, 51, a licensed professional counselor and community advocate has filed to run for SC House District 71. Zimmerman, a Democrat from Irmo, is running to flip the last Republican held house district seat based in Richland County.
District 71 has been held by Republican Nathan Ballentine since 2005.
Zimmerman, as a community advocate, has recently organized rallies protesting the ICE activities that have resulted in the death and harm of Americans and immigrant communities across the country, and additionally testified against increased presence in SC at the state house.
She also started the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Initiatives in the Midlands area when food stability was threatened during the government shutdown in October 2025. Within weeks of the shutdown, she led the organizing of food and supply drives in October and November 2025, and the Joy of Giving Holiday Drive. The efforts supported Midlands organizations like Sharing God’s Love, Epworth Children’s Home, Palmetto Place, Seven Oak Services, local churches and schools. Zimmerman was graduated from the Emerge program in October 2025 and is currently completing the Conservation Voters of SC Palmetto Leadership Academy.
Zimmerman looks to bring local issue to the forefront during her campaign as she fights for:
• Responsible Growth & Smart Use of Tax Dollars
• Protecting Natural Resources & Wildlife
• Strong Public Education for Every Child
• Mental Health Support: Schools & Communities
• Protecting Civil Rights and Freedoms
You can learn more about her campaign for SC House District 71 by visiting https://www.juliezforsc.com.
