First Congressional Congressman Henry Brown ended weeks of speculation Friday afternoon, as he announced his candidacy for Berkeley County Supervisor.
The announcement came before dozens of supporters at the Holiday Inn Express in Moncks Corner.
“I have decided to pursue the Republican nomination for Berkeley County Supervisor,” Brown said. “Now more than ever, experience counts.
“As we face economic challenges throughout the Trident area, we need proven leadership, not ideological rhetoric. Berkeley County residents should be mindful of this difference when making a choice for supervisor.”
Brown said he had talked to current supervisor Dan Davis, who he will face in the June Republican primary along with at least two other candidates.
“I explained to him why I was running,” Brown said. “My love of this county rises above individual friendships.”
Davis said Brown’s decision was “curious … with the county in the best financial shape it's been in years.”
Brown called bringing jobs to Berkeley County his number one goal. “We’ve got to find jobs for our citizens,” he said.
Brown said at age 74 he is capable of assuming the challenge of being supervisor. “I would not ask the people (for a) responsibility that I could not handle,” he said.
Friday’s announcement came before family, friends and a room full of supporters.
Brown recently announced his retirement from the U.S. House of Representatives. He said he looks forward to being able to remain in the county, where he is able to spend more time with his family.
The day after Brown entered the race, Republican Terry Hardesty, a member of the Berkeley County School Board, announced he will challenge county council member Jack Shurlknight for the District 6 seat. Hardesty made the announcement after saying he was no longer a candidate for supervisor.
Hanahan Mayor Minnie Blackwell and businessman Jean Woods are also candidates for the supervisor position.