EASLEY — Rex Rice, former member of the S.C. House of Representatives, has announced his intention to run for S.C. Senate District 2, a position currently held by Sen. Larry Martin.
Rice will run as a Republican for the seat, which hasn’t changed hands since Martin took office in 1992.
“I believe I have the knowledge and experience to be a leader in the Senate and to find solutions to the challenges we face,” Rice said. “I’m dedicated to tackling problems in our state head-on and making progress to increase the quality of life for our community.”
In addition to his time in the House, Rice built a construction and land development company in Pickens County as well as owning and operating a cattle farm with his wife of 34 years, Ruth. Rice was a graduate of Christ Church Episcopal School before attending Anderson College and the University of South Carolina.
Rice previously ran against Martin in 2012 as a write-in candidate after he was decertified from the ballot. Martin defeated Rice by almost 11,000 votes. Rice also ran for Congress in the Third District in 2010. The seat went to Jeff Duncan.
Rice has stated that he plans to focus his efforts on three issues: real ethics reform, comprehensive tax reform and creating an environment where small businesses and entrepreneurs can grow and prosper.
