SC State Senate -- The legislative power of the State of South Carolina is vested in a general assembly comprised of two chambers - the senate and the house of representatives. As part of the general assembly, the senate creates and amends laws that govern our state and must create and pass the state budget annually. The general assembly draws district lines for the SC House, SC Senate and US House every 10 years after each census. The senate consists of 46 members who are elected from single member districts. Senators must be citizens of the United States and the state of South Carolina, at least twenty-five years old at the time of their election, and residents of the district in which they are elected. Senators serve four-year terms and are all up for election during the same election cycle.
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8038231163
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Vernon Stephens for 39
Education
High School: St. George Highschool, Higher Education: South Carolina State College/University
Experience
Retired Manufacturing Manager, President Bowman Branch NAACP, 1988-20 Orangeburg County School Board, 1997-06 Orangeburg Consolidated School District 5 Board of Trustees, 2010-18 Chairman, Concerned Citizens Legislative District 66, 2012- Lower Savannah Council of Government Board of Directors, 2015- Board of Directors, Orangeburg Regional Econ. and Educ.
I have always believed that leadership is about service, and for me, serving the people of District 39 is a responsibility I take to heart. I want to represent my district because I understand everyday citizens’ struggles. Growing up in South Carolina, I've witnessed firsthand the challenges our communities endure — from inadequate healthcare to underfunded schools to infrastructure needs. As a senator, I can continue my work to improve these conditions.
My constituents' most pressing issues today include access to quality healthcare, especially in rural areas, economic development, and education reform. Too many of our residents lack access to adequate healthcare facilities, and expanding Medicaid is critical to addressing this issue. I intend to fight for healthcare solutions that meet the needs of every South Carolinian.
Public opinion is central to how I approach legislation. I see myself as a voice for the people of District 39, and their concerns guide my decision-making. Whether it's through town halls, listening sessions, or simply talking with constituents one-on-one, I make it a priority to understand their needs and opinions. For me, legislation should not be created in a vacuum but should reflect the real-world experiences and desires of the people we serve.
I am a strong proponent of Medicaid expansion. The failure to expand Medicaid in South Carolina has left hundreds of thousands of our residents without access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like parts of District 39. Expanding Medicaid would improve access to care and bring significant federal dollars into the state, strengthening our healthcare infrastructure.
I strongly support the most recent version of South Carolina’s hate crime bill. It’s long overdue that our state recognizes the severity of hate crimes and provides enhanced protections for vulnerable communities. As a leader with deep roots in the Civil Rights movement and as someone who has fought for justice for marginalized communities, I understand the devastating impact hate crimes can have on individuals and their communities.
