The 2024 elections in South Carolina marked a significant shift for the state’s Senate, leading to a wave of changes among its leadership. In total, thirteen out of the 46 senators have stepped down or been voted out, reflecting a historic turnover that involves nearly one-third of the chamber.
This reshuffling has tilted the balance more in favor of the GOP, which has been able to expand its supermajority in the Senate. As the new senators prepare to take office next month, one former senator is making sure her voice is still heard.
Katrina Shealy, a senator who lost her seat in the June GOP primary, has garnered attention as part of a group of senators known for their opposition to abortion legislation in South Carolina. After her defeat, Shealy launched a blog called “While I Breathe,” promising to highlight the ups and downs of South Carolina politics. The title is a nod to the state motto, which translates to “while I breathe, I hope.”
In her early blog posts, Shealy has criticized the new GOP majority, suggesting that it might struggle to legislate effectively due to its overwhelming Republican membership. “There will be no legislating,” she stated, warning that the situation might lead to chaos in governance.
Shealy has also taken aim at the state’s conservative lawmakers, particularly the Freedom Caucus, which has shown strong influence in the legislature. She expressed her commitment to advocating for vulnerable groups in South Carolina, including women, children, and the elderly, even if she is no longer an active senator.
Furthermore, Shealy did not hold back from criticizing her opponents, including state representative RJ May III, who is reportedly under federal investigation for serious allegations, and Carlisle Kennedy, who defeated her in the primary. Shealy emphasized that she stands against the alleged misconduct in the political arena and intends to continue fighting for her beliefs.
Much of her blog features commentary on party dynamics and the current political landscape. In one post, she described the prevailing values within the GOP as moving towards extremism. She claimed that the discussions within her party have been overshadowed by extreme positions, potentially alienating mainstream Republicans.
Despite her challenges, those who know Shealy suggest that she is unlikely to fade away from the political scene quietly. With a focus on more substantial policy discussions on her blog, she may still hold influence in South Carolina politics.
As the new Senate members prepare for their roles, Shealy’s forthcoming contributions may remain a point of interest in the evolving landscape of South Carolina governance.
