The News
First Monday is a Republican Business Forum allowing members of the club to become acquainted with and participate in discussions with elected officials, business leaders, candidates and party leaders.
Congresswoman Nancy Mace – candidate for Governor
First Monday was pleased to host Congresswoman Nancy Mace, candidate for Governor of SC, at our May meeting.
Congresswoman Mace outlined her campaign agenda for Governor of South Carolina.
Congresswoman Mace spoke about her priority to slash the state income tax to zero percent, ensuring more money stays in your pocket by streamlining state spending and fostering economic growth.
She spoke about removing sanctuary sheriffs and ensuring illegal aliens are deported. Another issue she spoke about was the need for dependable, secure power to make South Carolina energy-independent.
As Governor, she will continue as an advocate for protecting women and children and fighting to protect women’s sports, spaces, and achievements.
Danny Lee Ford, Candidate for South Carolina’s Commissioner of Agriculture
In May, First Monday was pleased to welcome Danny Lee Ford, Candidate for South Carolina’s Commissioner of Agriculture.
Mr. Ford spoke about protecting farmland, saying South Carolina is losing farmland at an alarming rate to development and urban sprawl. Protecting working land is essential to preserving our rural communities, food supply, and agricultural economy. He also spoke about The Future of Farming, noting that farmers are aging and young farmers are being priced out of the land. Without a clear path for succession and affordability, family farms will continue to disappear. The Department of Agriculture must be a true partner from planting to processing to profit—so farmers have a clear path to success.
He stressed that South Carolina lacks agricultural infrastructure and processing facilities needed to support farmers. And the issue of local food and food security. Supporting local farmers strengthens our economy and protects our food supply.
Mr. Ford encouraged the audience to invest in South Carolina farmers and keep food production close to home.
Fred West, Candidate for South Carolina’s Commissioner of Agriculture
In April, First Monday was pleased to welcome Fred West, Candidate for South Carolina’s Commissioner of Agriculture.
Mr. West brings decades of leadership in agribusiness and public service. As former Vice President at Amick Farms, Fred helped lead a company employing over 3,500 people across multiple states, overseeing human resources, safety, regulatory affairs, and public relations. After retiring in 2023, he founded West Resources, a consulting firm focused on agriculture and governmental affairs. Most recently, Fred served as Director of Market Development at the South Carolina Department of Agriculture (SCDA). West has also held leadership roles as Chairman of the Palmetto Agribusiness Council and the South Carolina Poultry Federation.
His campaign is centered on putting Farmers First and bringing a business-minded, experienced voice to protect South Carolina’s agricultural heritage, fight burdensome regulations, and push back against radical environmental policies. He also spoke about Defending Our Land by keeping South Carolina land in South Carolina’s hands by preventing foreign adversaries, like Communist China, from buying up farmland and threatening food security. Prioritizing South Carolina-grown products and reducing reliance on imports that undermine our farmers. And Protecting Consumers by ensuring efficiency, accountability, and public trust in inspections of restaurants, processing facilities, gas pumps, and grocery store scales.