State House of Representatives District 116 in South Carolina State House District 116, South Carolina

2026 Primary Election

• Radia L Baxter — Consultant in Johns Island, SC

  Radia L. Baxter is a Democratic candidate for the South Carolina House of Representatives, District 116. A long-time community advocate and nonprofit leader, she chairs the YWCA of Greater Charleston, with decades of experience supporting initiatives and advising political leaders in the Lowcountry. A mother of three and cancer survivor, Baxter holds a degree from the College of Charleston and is completing an Executive MBA. She professionally consults on responsible community development, affordable housing, and social reform. Her campaign prioritizes strengthening communities, expanding economic opportunity, supporting small businesses, and investing in infrastructure, including access to schools and healthcare. Baxter is running to bring her lifelong dedication to service to the State House.

• David W Bell — Automation Engineer and Manufacturing Professional in Charleston, SC

  David Bell, a retired U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer with 20 years of service aboard submarines, is an Automation Engineer and manufacturing professional. He previously served on the Charleston County School District Constituent Board, including a term as Vice Chair. A resident of the Charleston area for over 25 years, Bell is running to address rising costs, underfunded schools, and limited access to healthcare. His platform emphasizes fully funding public education, promoting universal Pre-K, reforming property taxes, expanding affordable healthcare access, improving benefits for veterans, and ensuring smart growth and personal freedoms.

• Clay N Middleton — Battalion Commander, South Carolina Army National Guard in Charleston, SC

  Clay N. Middleton, a Charleston native, is a Democratic candidate for the South Carolina House of Representatives District 116. A Burke High School alumnus and The Citadel graduate, Middleton serves as a Lieutenant Colonel and Battalion Commander in the South Carolina Army National Guard, a combat veteran, and a Bronze Star recipient. He previously served on the Democratic National Committee. Middleton is running to bring a practical, solution-oriented approach to the state house, focusing on unifying District 116 and addressing quality of life issues. His platform includes higher teacher pay, public school support, infrastructure improvements, natural resource protection, and Medicaid expansion. He is endorsed by U.S. Rep. James Clyburn.

• James E Teeple — Incumbent State House of Representatives in SC

  James Teeple, a Republican businessman, represents South Carolina House District 116, covering parts of Charleston and Colleton Counties. Born in 1979 and a Missouri State University alumnus, he is a passionate advocate for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Inspired by his daughter's life-saving treatment, he received the St. Jude Hope Award in 2025 for raising millions for pediatric cancer research. Teeple assumed office in November 2024 and is running for re-election in 2026. He champions legislation including the Regulation Freedom Act, Educator Assistance Act, and Fentanyl Homicide Bill, and serves on the Education and Public Works Committee.