Charleston Business Owner Enters Congressional Race

Jonathan Hoffman, a Charleston small business owner, educator and Air Force Reserve officer, has announced his candidacy in the Republican Primary for South Carolina's First Congressional District.

A special election has been called since former Congressman Tim Scott resigned to take an appointment to U.S. Senate. Scott filled the shoes of former Sen. Jim DeMint who resigned to pursue a private career. 

There are now more than 10 GOP candidates in the race. Voters will vote in a special primary March 19 in the GOP field.

"I have dedicated most of my professional life to public service and I believe that Congress, now more than ever, needs new members who will not only vote to restore fiscal responsibility in Washington, but who will provide leadership on critical economic and security issues that affect South Carolinians," Hoffman said in a released statement.

Hoffman, a South Carolina native and graduate of the University of Virginia School of Law, has extensive experience on Homeland Security issues, having served as the Director of Border Security at the White House under President George W. Bush. In addition to his current role as a business owner, Hoffman is an adjunct professor at the Citadel and the Charleston School of Law. As a JAG officer, Hoffman works to protect the interests of military members, veterans, retirees and their families.

Hoffman lives on James Island.