Strom Thurmond’s Youngest Son Might Run for Congress

Paul Thurmond wheels his father, U.S. Senator Strom Thurmond (in wheelchair) into his 100th birthday party at the U.S. Capitol, December 5, 2002 with his wife Nancy (L in red) and his daughter Julie Thurmond-Whitmer (behind Nancy). 2002 was Thurmond's last year in office. Luke Frazza/AFP/Getty Images

Strom Thurmond’s youngest son, Paul, is exploring the possibility of running to fill a seat being vacated in congress. The announced retirement of South Carolina Republican Henry Brown is the latest in a string of GOP retirements from congress.

“I am sad to see we are losing the leadership of a dedicated public servant in Henry Brown,” Thurmond told the political news website Politico.com. “That said, I view this as an exciting possibility that warrants serious discussion amongst family and friends.”

Thurmond is currently a Charleston, South Carolina County councilor, and would face a tough field of competition if he chooses to run.

Some of the several other politicians considering running include South Carolina state senator Luke Rankin (from Horry County), state Rep. Chip Limehouse, state senator Chip Campsen (Charleston County), state senator Raymond Cleary and state Rep. Alan Clemmons. Politico.com reports that Clemmons, a trial attorney, could be one of the most serious contenders because he has the ability to self-finance a campaign.

According to a list of members of congress compiled by USA Today, 13 other Republicans and 11 Democrats are either retiring completely or retiring to seek higher office.

Democrats

1. Neil Abercrombie, Hawaii 1 (Governor)
2. Brian Baird, Wash. 3
3. Artur Davis, Ala. 7 (Governor)
4. Bart Gordon, Tenn. 6
5. Paul Hodes, N.H. 2 (Senate)
6. Charlie Melancon, La. 3 (Senate)
7. Kendrick Meek, Fla.17 (Senate)
8. Dennis Moore, Kan. 3
9. Joe Sestak, Pa. 7 (Senate)
10. John Tanner, Tenn. 8
11. Robert Wexler, Fla.19

Republicans

1. J. Gresham Barrett S.C. 3 (Governor)
2. Roy Blunt, Mo. 7 (Senate)
3. Henry Brown, S.C. 1
4. Mike Castle, Del. At-Large (Senate)
5. Nathan Deal, Ga. 9 (Governor)
6. Mary Fallin, Okla. 5 (Governor)
7. Jim Gerlach, Pa. 6
8. Pete Hoekstra, Mich.2 (Governor)
9. Mark Kirk, Ill. 10 (Senate)
10. Jerry Moran, Kan.1 (Senate)
11. Adam Putnam, Fla. 12 (Agriculture Commissioner)
12. George Radanovich, Calif. 19
13. Todd Tiahrt Kan. 4 (Senate)
14. Zach Wamp, Tenn. 3 (Governor)