https://www.axios.com/2023/05/22/tim-scott-2024-presidential-election?utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=editorial&utm_source=twitter
Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) made his 2024 presidential bid official on Monday, speaking from his alma mater Charleston Southern University.
Why it matters: The South Carolina lawmaker and one of the most prominent Black Republicans in the U.S. launched his campaign with an optimistic speech, reflecting on faith and criticizing President Biden.
- “Today, I am living proof that America is the land of opportunity and not a land of oppression,” he said.
- Senate Minority Whip John Thune (R-S.D.) gave the opening prayer.
The big picture: Scott last week filed his paperwork for the Republican nomination, but he has been laying the groundwork for a campaign for months, including launching an exploratory committee last month.
- Scott is one of the Senate’s most formidable fundraisers and enters the race with $22 million in hand, a senior campaign official said.
- He’s also already made a $6 million ad buy in early primary states Iowa and New Hampshire.
Zoom out: Scott’s official announcement brings him into a crowded GOP field that includes former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley and former President Trump.
- Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy have also officially entered the GOP primary, while Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) is expected to soon enter the race.
