AIKEN - When voters go to the polls Tuesday in South Carolina, they face a historic election.
It will be the first time since 1956 that Strom Thurmond's name will not appear on a ballot when it could have.
The longest-serving senator in history became the first person to win a major office as a write-in candidate when he won his Senate seat in 1954. He was re-elected, with his name on the ballot, in 1956.
Because Mr. Thurmond is retiring, it also will mark the first time since 1966 that the state will elect a new senator.
The junior senator from South Carolina, Fritz Hollings, won a special election that year, starting his run of seven terms.
While the state will choose a new senator, Aiken and the rest of the 10 counties in the 3rd Congressional District will choose a new congressman.
Rep. Lindsey Graham, who in 1994 became the first Republican to win the district since 1877, is running for Mr. Thurmond's seat against Alex Sanders, a former judge and college president.
The 2002 election has made history in other ways. The campaign for governor between incumbent Democrat Jim Hodges and Republican Mark Sanford already has become the most expensive in state history, with more than $12 million spent.
"I think this election is one of the most important we have had in many years," Aiken County Democratic Party Chairman Charles Staples said.
The election is also potentially historic for Aiken County, which has two Republican candidates seeking statewide office. Greg Ryberg is running for treasurer, and Charles Sharpe is in the race for agriculture commissioner.
Mr. Ryberg is vacating his state Senate seat, which he has held since 1993. If he wins the treasurer's race, a special election would be held for the seat.
Mr. Sharpe, the incumbent in House District 86, is leaving his seat after 16 years. Aiken builder Jim Stewart and prosecutor Everett Chandler are vying for the seat.
"It makes the whole election that much more important to Aiken County," Mr. Sharpe said.
Mr. Ryberg and Mr. Sharpe are among the candidates for nine constitutional offices on the ballot. Four of those races have no incumbent.
The election also is important for the city of Aiken. By punching yes, voters could allow alcohol sales on Sundays in hospitality establishments.
Aiken County Elections Director Stuart Bedenbaugh predicts a 50 percent voter turnout.
Reach Matthew Boedy at (803) 648-1395 or matthew.boedy@augustachronicle.com.
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