Jockeying begins for Lee's seat

JASON SPENCER, Staff Writer

Political maneuvering is on the upswing in the wake of the July resignation of Spartanburg's longtime state representative, Brenda Lee.

At least three people are considering filing on the Democratic ticket in the race to replace Lee, and one more says he's sure of a run. Republicans, too, have promised to make a try for the District 31 seat, though party officials are keeping those names close to their vest.

Filing will begin at noon Aug. 19, and last until noon Aug. 29.

The filing beginning a week later than originally anticipated because the House speaker's office chose to use July 29 as Lee's departure date -- the day that office received her resignation letter. Special election schedules are determined by a formula in state law.

Lee resigned to take a government job that will require her to travel around South Carolina and help low-income families with their telephone bills. She held her seat for 10 years, which included two uncontested elections.

House District 31 cuts a thick swath through the center of Spartanburg. It stretches from Roebuck to Arkwright to Hilltop. All or part of 18 precincts make up the district.

"I will file for office," the Rev. Michael Glenn, 46, said. "I feel like I'm in position to serve the people of District 31 in particular and Spartanburg County in general, to continue the good work Brenda Lee has started."

Glenn says he's lived in Spartanburg for 18 years, and he has acquired property on Hydrick Street in April. He's never held a political office.

Three others have confirmed interest, but they have not stated publicly whether they will file later this month.

"It has been crazy," said Spartanburg City Council

member Linda Dogan, 51. Dogan says she gets five to 13 calls daily from people encouraging her to run for Lee's seat.

"I'm so torn right now," she said. "I've got City Council. I have my job. And I want to see somebody in that position who's going to do a great job, and who will be committed. But I want to make sure the city is taken care of as well. So, I'm confused."

Attorney Michael D. Brown has said he is considering a run. He will make "a firm decision" by Aug. 19. Brown changed his home address to Peronneau Street at the county's voter registration office last week, but said he was correcting a mistake. He says he's lived there for about a year, and in and around District 31 nearly all his life.

ReGenesis Executive Director Harold Mitchell says he is "heavily considering" vying for the vacant seat, rounding out the possible candidate list at four.

The filing fee for this year's special election has been set at $100, according to the state Election Commission. That office could not provide an estimate on how much this will cost taxpayers.

The winner of November's contest will serve the remainder of Lee's term, which is just shy of a year.

Jason Spencer can be reached at 562-7214, or jason.spencer@shj.com.