Aiken native to run for seat vacated by Perry

Aiken native Tom Young announced Tuesday that he will run for the State House District 81 seat being vacated by Rep. Skipper Perry.

"I'm running for the State House to share my Plan for Palmetto Progress with Aiken County voters," he said in a news release. "Having been born and raised in Aiken, I understand and appreciate the quality of life that we enjoy in Aiken County. It is important that we preserve that quality of life but also work to move our region forward."

Mr. Young said his plans include helping Aiken County and the state recruit jobs, cutting taxes, reining in wasteful spending, preserving natural resources, fighting illegal immigration and reducing the cost of health insurance.

A North Augusta man announced his intention Tuesday to challenge incumbent U.S. Rep. Gresham Barrett in South Carolina's 3rd Congressional District race.

Tommy J. Carson III, 33, said he is running as an independent against Mr. Barrett, a Republican. Mr. Carson said he is running on a platform of fiscal responsibility and would like to abolish the Internal Revenue Service.

"I believe we need change in Washington, and I believe we need average Americans who understand what the average American is going through," he said.

Mr. Carson has lived in North Augusta for five years and is married with four children.

The election will be Nov. 4. Mr. Barrett, of Westminster, S.C., is in his third term serving the 3rd District.