News Summary
With the resignation of Chuck Wright, nine candidates are competing to become the next Spartanburg County Sheriff in the upcoming special election. This follows allegations against Wright, including improper use of county resources. The election process includes a primary election and a forum held by the local Republican Party, allowing candidates to present their qualifications. Early voting will commence soon, as residents prepare to make a significant decision regarding the leadership of local law enforcement amidst accountability concerns.
Spartanburg, SC – Nine candidates are officially vying for the position of Spartanburg County Sheriff following the resignation of Chuck Wright. Wright stepped down in May 2023 after taking a leave of absence in April amidst allegations of improper use of a county credit card and an ethics investigation concerning the hiring of his son. The residents of Spartanburg County will have the opportunity to select a new sheriff during the upcoming special election on November 4, 2023.
The timeline for the election process begins with the primary election set for August 5, 2023. Early voting for this primary will take place until August 1. If necessary, a primary runoff is scheduled for August 19, 2023, to determine the final candidates who will advance to the special election in November. Early voting for the special election will be available from October 20 through October 31, 2023.
As part of the electoral process, the Spartanburg County Republican Party hosted a forum on July 11, 2023, to allow candidates to present their qualifications and address vital issues facing the county. Eight of the nine candidates participated in the forum held at Twitchell Auditorium on Converse University’s campus. The participating candidates included Robert Cheeks, Andy Clark, Rusty Clevenger, Nick Duncan, Randy Hollifield, Joseph Pilato, Billy Rhyne, and Ric Stephens. Adam Crisp chose not to participate in the event following controversial remarks made by the Republican Party Chairman, Frank Tiller.
Initially, tickets were sold for the forum at a cost of $10 each, with higher prices for others. However, following the backlash from Tiller’s comments that described potential attendees in a disparaging manner, the forum was ultimately announced as free with refunds provided for those who had purchased tickets. This change aimed to encourage community engagement and ensure greater participation in the election process.
The significance of this election has been heightened due to the circumstances surrounding Wright’s resignation. On June 12, 2023, South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson indicated that Wright could soon face charges linked to misconduct of a public officer and breach of trust. Meanwhile, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division confirmed an ongoing investigation into the allegations against him. These developments have raised questions about the integrity of the sheriff’s office and the need for accountability within local law enforcement.
The candidates now in the running bring a mix of backgrounds and qualifications to the contest. As the election date approaches, voters will be keenly evaluating each candidate’s capability to lead the sheriff’s department and restore public confidence after a recent period of turmoil. The candidates have been given a platform to elaborate on their visions for the sheriff’s office, providing voters with critical information necessary for making an informed decision.
The Spartanburg County Sheriff’s election process serves as an important mechanism for local governance, reflecting the community’s desire for effective law enforcement and ethical leadership. The decisions made during this electoral cycle may have far-reaching implications for public safety and community trust in law enforcement moving forward. As voters prepare to cast their ballots, the focus now shifts to the candidates themselves and how they will address the needs of Spartanburg County.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued for Spartanburg County
Shooting Incidents in Chester County Leave One Dead
Lightning Strike Injures 20 People at Lake Murray Public Park
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Spartanburg Area
Wofford College Begins Search for New President
Investigation Launched into Former Spartanburg Sheriff
Investigation Launched Against Former Spartanburg Sheriff
Investigation Launched Against Former Spartanburg County Sheriff
Former Spartanburg County Sheriff Resigns Amid FBI Probe
Investigation into Former Spartanburg Sheriff Uncovers Misconduct
Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina: Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Forum
- Wikipedia: Spartanburg County, South Carolina
- WYFF4: Spartanburg County Sheriff Candidates
- Google Search: Spartanburg County Sheriff Election 2023
- Post and Courier: Chuck Wright Spartanburg County Sheriff
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
- GoUpstate: Spartanburg GOP Hosting Sheriff Forum
- Google News: Spartanburg County Sheriff Candidates
- WSPA: Spartanburg County Sheriff GOP Candidates Talk Policy
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
