SOUTH CAROLINA — Former South Carolina Treasurer Thomas Ravenel has announced his candidacy for governor, marking his return to politics after a federal drug conviction, according to reports from the Herald.
Ravenel, who previously served as South Carolina’s treasurer, resigned after being charged with cocaine possession with intent to distribute. He was sentenced to 10 months in prison and fined $221,000. Despite his past, Ravenel is entering the gubernatorial race, which includes several prominent candidates.
“I’m running for Governor of South Carolina and none of the lightweights currently in the race are going to stop me,” Ravenel posted on X, expressing confidence in his campaign.
Ravenel, who identifies as a libertarian, announced his candidacy on social media, stating that his message will not only impact South Carolina but the entire country. He previously ran for the U.S. Senate in 2014 as an independent. The gubernatorial race is expected to feature candidates such as Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, and Attorney General Alan Wilson, among others.
Ravenel’s entry into the governor’s race adds a controversial figure with a history in both politics and reality television, having appeared on Bravo’s Southern Charm from 2014 to 2018.
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