Rock Hill Elects Everett Stubbs as New State Senator in Narrow Victory

Rock Hill Welcomes New State Senator Everett Stubbs

Rock Hill, South Carolina – In a closely contested election, Everett Stubbs will take over as the new state senator for the Rock Hill area after defeating Mike Fanning by narrow margins. The Democratic incumbent conceded to Stubbs following a tight race that concluded with a difference of just 29 votes. Fanning officially waived his right to a recount, marking the end of the election process.

Election Results Confirmed

The decision came after election boards in York, Chester, Lancaster, and Fairfield counties certified the results on Friday. The certifying process involved counting provisional ballots, which slightly narrowed the margin from 32 to 29 votes. Even with this adjustment, Fanning acknowledged that a recount would not reverse the election outcome.

John Michael Catalano, a spokesman for the South Carolina Election Commission, confirmed that Fanning’s email declaration constituted the required waiver for a recount. Fanning submitted the email around 5 p.m. on Friday, stating, “Please accept this as my declining a recount in my senate re-election race.”

The Final Vote Count

Stubbs emerged victorious with 27,953 votes, while Fanning garnered 27,926 votes, according to official figures. The total number of ballots cast in the election was 55,931. The competition proved intense, with both candidates actively campaigning and engaging voters.

Stubbs’s Reaction

In a phone interview with The Herald, Stubbs expressed his excitement over the victory. He received a voicemail concession from Fanning, congratulating him on the win. “I look forward to representing all the citizens of our district and promise to be a strong advocate for the district and unification,” Stubbs stated, emphasizing his commitment to his constituents. He also took a moment to thank his family and supporters, conveying appreciation with a text message that noted, “All included. I won by 29.”

Fanning’s Legacy and Next Steps

This election marked a significant transition, as Fanning had served since 2016 and had successfully won re-election in 2020. Following his concession, Fanning posted a message on social media confirming the loss and congratulating Stubbs. He acknowledged, “the people have spoken,” highlighting the democratic process.

The geographic area for District 17 includes southern York County, much of Rock Hill, as well as mostly rural territories in Chester and Fairfield counties, plus a portion of Lancaster County. With a term lasting four years, Stubbs now prepares to take office among South Carolina’s 46 state senators, 33 of whom are Republicans.

Looking Ahead

As he anticipates his new role, the specific date for Stubbs’s swearing-in ceremony remains unclear. However, the next legislative session is scheduled to begin in early January, marking a new chapter for both him and the constituents he represents.

Conclusion

The recent election results in Rock Hill reflect the local electorate’s choices and highlight the importance of civic engagement in shaping leadership at the state level. With Everett Stubbs stepping into the role of state senator, the residents of District 17 can look forward to new representation and initiatives.