Far too often in politics, political candidates run on this or that promise – knowing all too well that as soon as their election is won, and as soon as the election spotlight shines no more, none of what they promised to accomplish will ever actually get done.

These types of politicians are scattered across the palmetto state, and they quite frankly, leave our nation in the state we find it today.

Luckily for Lexington – our Senator, Katrina Shealy, is far from an all-talk, no action politician.

From Lexington’s Town limits to Batesburg-Leesville and beyond, I can tell you from firsthand experience working alongside her as a member of Lexington Town Council and as someone who has known Katrina personally for many years, Sen. Katrina Shealy delivers for Lexington.

Since our first meeting nearly two decades ago to our current work together, I find myself regularly inspired as I witness Katrina’s interactions with the community she serves. Rather than talking at her constituents, Katrina listens intently to constituents, asks insightful questions and regularly offers practical solutions.

Over the years, and even more so since joining our town council, I have also witnessed firsthand the profound impact of Sen. Shealy's work in our community.

As our State Senator, Katrina has delivered for law enforcement and first responders through securing funding for local departments, protecting the safety of officers and their families and keeping criminals behind bars. Her steadfast support has not only enhanced public safety but has also strengthened the trust between law enforcement and the community.

Katrina has also been a tireless advocate for children and families. She has passed legislation to protect children at home, school and online. Her introduction of bills to remove sales tax on necessary products like baby formula and to provide breakfast and lunch to all students reflects her deep commitment to the well-being of our young ones. These measures ensure that families in Lexington County have the support they need to thrive, and this is precisely why she’s often referred to as the “Senator for the kids.”

In addition to her work on law enforcement and children’s welfare, Sen. Shealy has delivered for taxpayers. She was instrumental in passing the largest tax cut in state history, amounting to $2 billion. Furthermore, she worked to remove the state income tax on veterans’ retirement and introduced a bill to eliminate the state income tax altogether. These efforts have provided significant financial relief to our residents and made South Carolina a more attractive place for families and businesses.

Sen. Shealy’s impactful work to improve infrastructure has been critical to our local community. Deservedly recognized as the “most productive lawmaker” by The State newspaper, Katrina has secured millions to improve local infrastructure, including the widening and paving of Highway 1 from Lexington to Batesburg-Leesville – a stretch of road which at times can see nearly 100,000 cars per day.

Amidst all of this, one of the most important aspects of Sen. Shealy's work is her collaboration with local government. Especially taking into account my role on Lexington Town Council, I simply cannot overstate the importance of having a state senator who is an ally of local government.

From understanding the unique challenges and opportunities that we face to collaborating on ways we can bring stakeholders in the community together to forge mutually beneficial solutions, she is always willing to listen to our concerns, advocate for our needs and work with us to make things happen.

Sen. Shealy’s support has been invaluable in helping us achieve our goals and improve the quality of life for our residents, and I am most grateful to have a Senator who regularly engages directly with citizens at festivals, grand opening, Town Council meetings, and much more. Simply put, if there’s an event in the community, you’re likely to find Sen. Shealy taking part.

As we look to the Republican Primary next Tuesday, June 11, 2024, it is crucial that we in Lexington continue to support leaders like Sen. Shealy who have a proven track record of making a positive impact in our community.

Katrina’s dedication, compassion and tireless work have made Lexington a better place for all of us, and it is critical we re-elect such a valuable partner to our town and the greater Lexington community.

Next Tuesday, June 11, we as Lexingtonians, have a choice when we take to the ballot box  – will we stand with Katrina Shealy – our Senator who has a proven record of delivering for Lexington, or will we succumb to petty partisan politics and elect yet another all-talk, no action politician who is likely to get next to nothing done for people?

I, for one, will be standing with Katrina, and I hope you’ll join me in doing so, too.