With November’s municipal elections coming up, candidates in Charleston, Mount Pleasant, and Hollywood can now officially start their campaigns. The filing period opened on August 4 and will close at noon on August 18 for nonpartisan races.
Races in the City of Charleston
Half of the 12 City Council seats are up for election. Some current council members and new candidates have already filed.
In District 2, incumbent Kevin Shealy is running for reelection. This district covers parts of West Ashley from Interstate 526 to Bees Ferry Road and areas near the Ashley River and Savannah Highway.
District 4 has longtime Councilman Robert Mitchell seeking another term. He has represented this area since 2002. He will face challenger Aaron Polkey, President & CEO of Palmetto Project. District 4 stretches from Calhoun Street to the northern part of the peninsula.
Councilman William Dudley Gregorie, representing District 6 on the western peninsula, has filed for another term.
District 8’s Councilman Mike Seekings is running for his fifth term. His district includes the Battery, South of Broad, Calhoun Street, and lower King Street.
Councilman Stephen Bowden from District 10 said he plans to run again but hasn’t filed officially yet. His district covers parts of West Ashley north of Bees Ferry Road.
District 12, covering James Island, could see a competitive race. Incumbent Caroline Parker has not said if she’ll run. Two challengers, Deanna Miller and Leslie Skardon, have entered the race.
Voters will also choose a Commissioner of Public Works, who manages water, sanitation, and infrastructure. Kathleen G. Wilson is a candidate so far.
Races in Mount Pleasant
Mayor Will Haynie will seek a third term but hasn’t filed yet. He will face challenger Irvin Evans.
Four town council seats are open. So far, only Councilman Mike Tinkey has filed.
The filing fee is $150.
Races in Hollywood
Three seats on the Hollywood Town Council will be decided in November. No candidates have filed yet.
Council members are elected at-large for four-year terms.
Candidates must live in Hollywood, be registered Charleston County voters, and pay a $35 filing fee.
Important Dates and Information
The general election will be held on November 4, 2025.
For more information or to check voter registration, visit scvotes.gov.
