James McQuilla announces candidacy for Mayor of Orangeburg

Pledges Bold Leadership, Economic Growth and Community Unity

“James McQuilla, a seasoned entrepreneur and current president of the Orangeburg County Chamber of Commerce, announced his candidacy for Mayor of the City of Orangeburg, pledging to bring bold, innovative leadership to guide the city into a prosperous future.

“I’m running for mayor for a very simple reason — our city is at a crossroad, and I believe I can help lead us down the right path,” McQuilla said. “Our city deserves a fresh perspective, and I believe I have the experience and vision to lead us forward. As Mayor, I will lead a comprehensive and robust plan to create a new Orangeburg.”

McQuilla’s platform is focused on creating a N.E.W. vision to move the city forward – New Leadership, Economic Development, and Working Together. At the heart of his vision is the belief that job creation is the most effective strategy for reducing crime and fostering a vibrant community.

“By focusing on industries with high growth potential, such as cybersecurity, construction, quantum computing, artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, and medical research, we will be able to attract innovative businesses that can provide well-paying jobs,” he said.

McQuilla said Orangeburg has the potential to become a technology hub in the Midlands and he plans to advocate for infrastructure improvements that will support this vision. He is also a firm proponent of collaborative solutions and fostering inter-generational collaborations and cultural understanding to create a more inclusive community.

“Success is simple when we work to together,” he said adding that teamwork unlocks collective potential. “Diverse perspectives are crucial to creating inclusive solutions that acknowledge and celebrate the richness of our community. By enhancing cultural programs, hosting community dialogues, and promoting events to celebrate individuality, we will create a more cohesive city where everyone feels valued and engaged.”

The core reason why he is running for mayor is to create a prosperous and sustainable future for Orangeburg for generations to come. An advocate and mentor for youth and education, McQuilla said the welfare of future generations should guide all decision-making processes.

“My passion is kids. I don’t want to see another generation of our kids disillusioned with despair but rather focused on prosperity,” he said. “I envision educational programs and partnerships with local institutions to ensure that young people are equipped for the jobs of the future and can contribute meaningfully to the tech hub I anticipate for Orangeburg.”

McQuilla said his vision for Orangeburg is both ambitious and grounded in reality. Through focused job creation, inter-generational collaboration, cultural understanding, and a commitment to sustainable decision-making, he believes a New more prosperous Orangeburg is on the horizon.

“Together, we can create a future where success is indeed, simple—because we are working together,” he said.

To learn more about McQuilla’s vision for Orangeburg and get involved in his campaign or follow him on Facebook at McQuilla for Mayor. To support the campaign, click here.

About James McQuilla

McQuilla graduated from The Citadel Military College with a Bachelor of Science degree and earned his MBA from Winthrop University. He is an experienced leader with over 30 years of success in entrepreneurship, management, and business development. Throughout his career, he has successfully led businesses through growth, change, and new challenges.

As president of the Orangeburg County Chamber of Commerce, he has worked tirelessly to promote Orangeburg as a great place to live, work, and visit. He focuses on building strong partnerships within the community and helping more entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses. McQuilla recently became a children’s book author with the release of The Adventures of Matty Peajay and the Sumter Bunch.

He is the proud father of two adult children—his daughter, Jai, is a physician, and his son, Matthew, will complete both an MBA and a law degree at Northwestern University in Chicago in May of 2025.