South Carolina State House Majority Leader Davey Hiott on Monday, January 27, 2025 announced his decision to retire at the end of his current term, concluding a distinguished career in public service that has spanned more than 20 years.

Representative Hiott, a respected advocate for conservative values, expressed his gratitude to the citizens of District 4 for their unwavering support throughout his tenure.

“Serving the people of District 4 has been the honor of a lifetime,” said Hiott. “Together, we’ve achieved so many great things: protecting the unborn, strengthening Second Amendment rights, and making South Carolina a great place to do business. While this decision was not an easy one, I believe it is the right time for me to step aside and allow the next generation of leaders to build on our successes.”

As part of his announcement, Leader Hiott endorsed Clay Counts as the best person to succeed him in the upcoming 2026 election. Counts, a lifelong resident of Pickens County, is a well-known community leader with a proven track record of supporting conservative causes and community service. Hiott expressed his confidence in Counts’ ability to represent District 4 with the integrity, unwavering dedication, and vision needed for the 21st century.

“Clay Counts is exactly the kind of leader we need to make South Carolina and the United States the best they can possibly be. I have known Clay for a long time, and there is nobody better prepared to fill this role,” said Hiott. “He understands the underlying principles upon which this nation was founded and knows the people of Pickens County better than anyone else. I know without a doubt he will fight tirelessly to ensure our voices are heard and conservative values are promoted in Columbia. I wholeheartedly endorse Clay Counts and encourage the people of District 4 to support his campaign.”

Counts expressed his gratitude for the endorsement and pledged to put citizens first if elected. “I am honored to have Representative Hiott’s support,” said Counts. “His dedication to the people of District 4 during his tenure has been unwavering, and the effects of his work will be felt for generations. I am committed to continuing to represent District 4 with honor and integrity while making sure the conservative values of this district are heard loud and clear. I look forward to earning the trust of voters and serving the people to the best of my ability.”

Leader Hiott’s retirement marks the end of an era for District 4, where he has been a staunch advocate for a variety of conservative causes. As Majority Leader, he played a pivotal role in countless pieces of legislation, leaving behind a legacy of principled leadership.