Candidate Profile: Alan Hunter, S.C. Senate District 18

The District 18 state Senate race will pit three challengers — Hunter, , and — against incumbent GOP , of Prosperity.

The district covers Lexington, Newberry, and Saluda counties.

Name: Alan Hunter 

Age: 47 

Occupation: antique boat restoration  

Prior experience (political/civil/etc): Council member of Our Saviour Lutheran Church 

Family: Married to Barbara, no children 

Education: B.S. in physics, University of South Carolina; associate degree in general commerce, University of South Carolina 

Campaign website: alanhuntersc.com 

Why are you seeking this office?

As an engineer, I am in the business of providing solutions. While we live in a richly-blessed area of South Carolina, we still face difficulties that lawyers and politicians will never be able to solve.

What makes you the best person for the job? 

My business and technology background and years of practical experience in state government, large corporations, and small business give me a useful advantage over career politicians. 

What areas of the office will you seek to focus on and what do you hope to accomplish in your term? 

One thing I aim to accomplish is a return to our state Constitution’s mandate of one-county, one-senator. The initial reapportionment done in 1960 was temporary — it’s now been “temporary” for 52 years! I also will focus on job creation and infrastructure improvements. 

Have you heard any repeated concerns from residents of District 18?

The economy and jobs, obviously, are top concerns. Tax reform to promote business development is another, along with transportation issues. 

What do you think needs to be done to improve South Carolina’s education system? 

Returning to and focusing on basic education skills, for one thing. We also need to take advantage of programs and initiatives already in place, such as the Starbase program of the SC National Guard which promotes math and science education. 

What do you think about South Carolina’s job creation strategy and what do you think should be done to bring more jobs to the state and improve our economy? 

I support the steps taken to reinforce our right-to-work status and other actions that promote a positive business environment. I will work to enable the growth of small business in our state, which is the backbone of our country’s economy. 

Gov. Nikki Haley is fond of giving out grades to lawmakers. How would you assess her job so far in her first term as governor? 

I would give her a B-minus. She hasn’t failed us, but a more cooperative tone between the General Assembly and the governor’s office would improve its overall functioning. 

Are there any other comments you'd like to make, or would like to discuss something not raised in our questions? 

I have not accepted any donations from anyone, nor have I sent out multiple flashy mailings. Our state needs substance and solutions – and I’m here to offer them.