FLORENCE - Surrounded by America’s signature red, white and blue, members of the Florence County Republican Party gathered Monday to open their new local campaign headquarters and officially introduce the GOP’s local slate of candidates.

“This is the best, most-qualified group of candidates I’ve seen in Florence County in a long time,” Florence County Republican Party Chairman Tommy Phillips said. “I think we have a magnificent group, and I think we’re going to win this year.”

Present at Monday’s headquarters opening were Sen. Hugh Leatherman, who is running for re-election in Senate District 31; Rep. Marty Coates, who is running for re-election in House District 60; Florence County Treasurer Dean Fowler, who faces opposition in November; Kim Stroud, the Republican candidate for Florence County Sheriff; and Herbert Anderson and Andy Wilson, GOP candidates for Florence County Council Districts 4 and 5, respectively.

Leatherman kicked off the festivities with a short speech in which he touted the GOP’s strength and outlined his continuing priority in the Senate.

“My goal has always been to do what’s best for the people of my district and this state, and I will keep, as they say, bringing the bacon back home,” he said. “We are going to win, make no mistake about it.”

Each of the other candidates present also was given an opportunity to speak. Most echoed Leatherman’s comments and encouraged Republicans to rally behind their national and local candidates.

“Each of us has in our heart the people of this county and the people of this state,” Fowler said. “We are dedicated to continuing to serve you.”

The Florence County Republican Party/Bush-Cheney headquarters is located at 234 W. Palmetto St. The office will be open from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Republican supporters are invited to stop by the headquarters and pick up yard signs and other campaign materials.

The office staff can be reached by phone at (843) 662-0047. If the office is closed, supporters can call (843) 661-0995.

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