PINEVILLE--Berkeley County Magistrate Joe Jefferson said Wednesday he is considering running for a Statehouse seat.

Jefferson, 56, has not formally announced, but he said if Rep. Amos Gourdine, D-Pineville, decides not to seek re-election next year for House seat 102 that he might be a candidate.

Gourdine, 60, has served seven years, and said Wednesday he is undecided on another term.

"There ought to be a better congenial atmosphere in Columbia," Jefferson said. "I see too much bickering. There is an appearance in other states that South Carolina citizens are not getting along. I would like to go up there and attempt to create a more harmonious atmosphere. I would also like to be a voice for the silent ones, for those who have issues but aren't able to express those issues."

The four-year magistrate recently served four years on the S.C. Highway Commission, 11 years on Berkeley County School Board and 10 years with former Congressman Mendel Davis.