Grooms, Hoffman and Patrick Receive Endorsements in SC1.

Three of the Republican candidates in the 16-person field announced endorsements on Monday.

Sen. Larry Grooms was endorsed by four of his fellow Lowcountry legislators.

• Sen. Paul Campbell (R – Berkeley) 
• Sen. Raymond Cleary (R – Georgetown)
• Rep. Joe Daning (R – Berkeley) 
• Rep. Eddy Southard (R – Berkeley)

Jonathan Hoffman was endorsed by former U.S. Secret Service Director and U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner W. Ralph Basham. 

Rep. Andy Patrick was endorsed by a pair of Beaufort County Republicans in the legislature:

• Rep. Bill Herbkersman (R - Bluffton)
• Rep. Weston Newton (R - Bluffton) 

Quotes:

On Grooms:

Paul Campbell said, “It’s been well documented that Larry Grooms was part of the hand picked team which helped secure the Boeing deal. When the multinational cargo carrier Maersk, was planning to take its business out of the Charleston port – Larry came in and helped negotiate a deal to ensure Maersk would remain in the Lowcountry. Larry’s record creating a pro-business environment on the biggest of international stages for South Carolina speaks for itself.”

Ray Cleary said, “Even in today's difficult economic climate – Larry’s ability to create a pro-jobs environment has been great for our region and our state. We need him in Congress.”

Joe Daning said, “I was a strong supporter of Tim Scott when he first ran for Congress and now that Tim is in the Senate, I'm supporting Larry Grooms. I have witnessed Larry's invaluable leadership first-hand at the state level and now, we need to send Larry to Washington.”

Eddie Southard said, “Larry believes in fundamental tax reform. He supports ending corporate welfare and special interest tax loopholes, broadening the tax base and lowering taxes. If we as conservatives don't address Washington's out of control spending problem and put forth solid fiscal policy like Larry suggests, we as a nation will continue to burden our children and grandchildren with unnecessary immoral debt.

On Hoffman:

W. Ralph Basham said, “When I was Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Jonathan was right in the middle of our efforts to double the size of the border patrol and build nearly 700 miles of fence along our Southwest Border.  These initiatives have since yielded tangible results for our country’s border security today.

“Most importantly, Jonathan is a tireless advocate for the men and women who serve on the frontlines in guarding our nation and I know he will bring that same energy and commitment to the citizens of South Carolina’s First Congressional District.

“Now more than ever, Washington needs leaders willing to roll up their sleeves and get to work on behalf of their constituents. Jonathan’s experience and knowledge of the issues will allow him to do just that starting on day one.”

Patrick responding to Herkersman and Newton endorsements:

"They have proven to be amazing public servants on behalf of the people of Beaufort County, both locally and in Columbia. Their counsel has been a great asset to me throughout this entire campaign and it is a pleasure to serve alongside them in Columbia."

View all endorsements in SC1 HERE.

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