Tim Scott to seek reelection in 2028, despite pledging retirement

Scott first became a senator in 2013, when then-Gov. Nikki Haley, R-S.C., tapped him to replace Sen. Jim DeMint, R-S.C., who resigned in the middle of his term.

Published: March 18, 2026 3:51pm

Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., confirmed he would seek reelection in 2028, despite previously asserting that 2022 would be his last election cycle.

Scott confirmed his plans to the South Carolina Post and Courier, saying "[a]nd I’ll say without any question that as I think about my own reelection in 2028, I think about all the lessons I’ve learned on the campaign trail for all these other candidates, and frankly, even in South Carolina."

 “The more I travel the state, the more I travel the country, the more I realize the important role that we play in the majority," he said.

Scott first became a senator in 2013, when then-Gov. Nikki Haley, R-S.C., tapped him to replace Sen. Jim DeMint, R-S.C., who resigned in the middle of his term. Scott was serving the House at the time.

In this election cycle, Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., faces a primary challenge from Paul Dans in the Palmetto State.

Ben Whedon is the Chief Political Correspondent at Just the News. Follow him on X.

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