Laurens County Farmer and Business Owner Rick Shealy Announces Run for SC House District 14
March 4, 2026
Eighth-generation South Carolinian and lifelong conservative Republican pledges principled leadership and a strong voice for Laurens County families
Rick Shealy, a farmer, business owner, eighth-generation South Carolinian, and lifelong conservative Republican, today announced his candidacy for the South Carolina House of Representatives, District 14, pledging to bring principled leadership, common-sense solutions, and a strong local voice to Columbia.
Shealy said his decision to run comes after months of prayer, conversations with family and community members, and growing concern about the direction of state government and the challenges facing rural South Carolina.
“Laurens County deserves a representative who understands our community, our values, and our everyday challenges,” Shealy said. “I am running to ensure that District 14 has a strong, independent voice in Columbia — one that puts people ahead of politics and focuses on real results.”
Before settling into farm life in Cross Hill, Shealy founded and operated a successful business, which he later sold. He holds both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Marine Biology from the College of Charleston, working his way through college to pay for his education. His background in business, agriculture, and community involvement, he said, provides a practical understanding of the issues affecting local families, workers, and rural communities.
“Over the next several months, my goal is to meet as many residents of District 14 as possible — to listen, to learn, and to hear firsthand what matters most,” he said. “If elected, I want to go to Columbia truly prepared to represent the people of this district.”
Shealy identified several priorities for his campaign, including improving infrastructure and road conditions, strengthening education with parents at the center, protecting constitutional freedoms, supporting families and the sanctity of life, and ensuring government accountability to taxpayers.
“As a farmer and longtime resident, I travel our roads daily and see the challenges our community faces,” Shealy said. “We need leadership focused on fixing problems, not expanding bureaucracy.”
Shealy emphasized that his campaign is rooted in service to the community and the future of Laurens County.
“This campaign is about the future of our community,” he said. “Laurens County is a place where neighbors look out for one another and where values still matter. I am running to serve the people of District 14 and help build a stronger future for the next generation.”
About Rick Shealy: Rick Shealy is a farmer, business owner, eighth-generation South Carolinian, and lifelong conservative Republican who lives in Cross Hill. He previously founded and ran a successful business before selling it and now owns and operates a farm business with his son. He holds both BS and MS degrees in Marine Biology from the College of Charleston and has been actively involved in community and civic life throughout the region.
