Election Season Highlights- Russell Guerard, District 110

Comprised of portions of Mount Pleasant and peninsular Charleston, those represented within District 110 will, on Tuesday, partake in an action not seen since 1995: voting in a Republican primary without current Representative Chip Limehouse as a candidate. Representative Limehouse’s decision to retire from his position has afforded Eddie Phipps, Trey Harrell, Russell Guerard, Will Freeman, and William Coqswell Jr. full opportunity to present their case to potential constituents as to how they are best qualified to lead a new era for District 110.

Before the upcoming primary votes within District 110 are cast, Candidate Russell Guerard spoke with political blogger Lorena Jordan and provided insight into how he defines himself and his platform Guerard, who has been in the real estate industry since 1997, is no stranger to Charleston politics. His father, the late Theodore Guerard, served in the state legislature from 1964-1970, providing Mr. Guerard ample first-hand memories of state regulations taking place. Mr. Guerard is married to his lovely wife Tara and has three children.

Below is Lorena’s interview with Mr. Guerard

Lorena Jordan (LJ): Thank you for allowing me to interview you. Tell us about you. What makes you qualified to hold this position at this critical point within Charleston and South Carolina’s history?

Russell Guerard (RG): I'm the ONLY candidate who was born, raised, and currently owns a home in the district. This is important because I am aware of the issues that the people within the district deal with on a daily bases. Flooding, traffic, over development, cruise ships, etc., I know it, I see it everyday.  I've got a vested interest in the district and I will be vigilant preserving our quality of life.

LJ: What inspired your initial, and continuing interest, in holding political office?

RG: Ethics reform. I ran two years ago on the same platform but lost by 38 votes. I believe we need an independent council to oversee the senate and the house. I'd also like to widen I-26 east and west bound to Columbia.

LJ: Why are you choosing to run for this position at this time?

RG: I'm in a position where I can help people and that's what I want to do. For me, that's where I get the most satisfaction.

LJ: What do you feel is the greatest issue to address within your district? Within the state as a whole?

RG: Ethics reform is critical, until we address this the proceed is tainted.

LJ: Which political figure has most influenced your beliefs and views on issues?

RG: My father, Theodore Guerard. He only served from 1964-1970 in the State House, but he served with honor and integrity. He died in 1997 but folks around the state still remember him.  He was one of the good guys, it also helped that he was smarter than anyone else. Lots of people relied on him.

Lorena and Mr. Guerard also discussed a few of the current issues shaping our state.

LJ: Can you name a current tax that you would repeal? A fee?

RG: The state income tax. Id love to see the state move to a "fair tax".

LJ: What do you think of governor Haley’s recent attempts to veto the farms bill?

RG: Mixed but I understand her reasoning. A lot of different businesses were affected. It wouldn't be fair to show favoritism to one without helping all the others.

LJ: What do you think about the Shoreline bill that just passed?

RG: I think its great. Anything we can do to protect our natural resources makes sense. Let's not kill the goose.

LJ: What do you think about the current state of 526, and what is the solution?

RG: I'm neither for or against 526, for me it's about prioritizing. I-26 is more important because a lot more cars travel on it. It's the spine that connects the Lowcountry to the rest of the state.

LJ: Thank you for your answers Russell. Let me close with two questions.

LJ: What do you want the voters to know about you that may not already be known?

RG: I didn't have any children until I was 43, by the time I was 47 I had 3. I love them but it's a young mans sport.

LJ: If we’re sitting here a year from your election discussing the success you’ve had so far, what would you have accomplished by then?

RG: An independent council who oversees the Senate and the House. Once that is in place this state is off and running.

Remember, no matter the election, your vote always matters! Get out on the 14th and support those you believe in. Polls remain open until 7pm.