By Jenny Peterson
Reprinted from The Journal

James Island Public Service District Commissioner Eugene Platt, who has been on the commission for 14 years, will not seek re-election next year because he plans to run for Rep. Wallace Scarborough’s S.C. House District 115 seat.

Platt lost to Scarborough by 40 votes in that district race in 2006.

Platt, a Democrat, said he immediately knew he wanted to run again in 2008.

He said many supporters from James Island encouraged him to run again.

“I’m no Abe Lincoln, but there’s something to be said for tenacity,” Platt said.

Platt’s term with the district expires in 2008, and he would have to run again for re-election.

South Carolina election laws prohibit candidates from running in more than one election at the same time.

Platt said his experience on the PSD will help him in the race for the Statehouse seat.

“I got a great deal of positive name recognition and (I’ve been) part of the process that has assured residents top-quality services,” Platt said. “Serving the PSD has been one of my highest honors. I’ve enjoyed serving with a variety of people. It’s always a pleasure.”

Platt said he probably would not run again for the PSD seat even if he wasn’t running for the House seat.

“It’s time to give someone else a chance. It’s the power of the incumbent to say, ‘I’ve served since 1993 and I don’t want to be greedy,’ ” he said.

Platt formally announced his candidacy for the Statehouse at the end of November, roughly a year before the election in November 2008. District 115 covers all of Folly Beach and 95 percent of James Island.

Platt said he’s feeling good about the election this time and will run a strong campaign that he’s starting nearly a year before the election.

His platform includes protecting the environment from development, lowering taxes (including income, property and sales taxes) and imposing stricter fines on companies that knowingly hire illegal immigrants.

Platt said that being on the Democratic ticket will help his chances of beating Republican Scarborough, who is expected to run again.

“There’s growing disenchantment in this area by federal Republicans over Iraq and gas prices,” Platt said. “Although the district is demographically Republican in James Island, people are more independent than Republican. A Democrat who comes across as independent — they’re willing to take a look at him.”

Scarborough said, “I’ll make an announcement of what I plan to do when I’m ready.”

Official filing for the office is at the end of March.

Platt said his candidacy also appeals to senior citizens.

“No one has ever suggested that at 68 years that I’m too old to run. Many people see it as a plus. Senior citizens feel I can identify with their needs,” Platt said. “I can’t guarantee I’ll win, but Scarborough will have to work harder than ever before to win.”

Platt’s election Web site is www.voteplatt.com.