Brent Nelsen for Education

Dear Friend,

I am incredibly thankful for the support that you have always shown me, from my first campaign for Congress in 1998 to my election as Senator of South Carolina in 2004. That’s why today, I’d like to introduce you to another man beginning his political career: my good friend, Brent Nelsen.

Brent recently announced his candidacy for State Superintendent of Education. When he asked for my support, I told him I’d be honored to give it. You see, I believe Brent has the vision, drive and ideas that will propel our students towards success in the rapidly changing job market of the 21st century.

To give you a little personal background on Brent: he lives in Greenville with his wife Lori. They have been long-time supporters of public education with all three of their children having attended Summit Drive Elementary, League Academy, and Greenville High School. He is currently a professor at Furman University and most recently chaired the Department of Political Science. In addition, our families attend church together.

Brent has taught economics and political science at Furman University for over 20 years and knows that the first step to securing our state’s economic future must begin in the classroom. He understands that a well-qualified workforce in South Carolina is essential to compete with other states—and even other countries—for critical business investment. Brent will focus on equipping our students with the skills they need to compete in this international economy.

Brent realizes that simply throwing more money at these challenges is not the answer. In these tight budget times, every possible dollar must be directed to where it is most effective. This means realigning our spending priorities and eliminating frivolous and wasteful spending. Tough decisions must be made… and Brent is ready to make them. The fact is, more money must make it to the desks of students and deserving teachers in the classroom instead of lining the desk drawers of educrats and union leaders.

And if you are able to, will you consider supporting Brent’s campaign for State Superintendent of Education? Every dollar and volunteer hour is important. He needs our support to get his positive message out and answer the attacks that are sure to come from the entrenched education special interests.

Thank you for taking a few minutes to get to know my friend, Brent Nelsen. With our support, I believe he can bring real reform to our education system. Together, let’s reclaim excellence for every South Carolina student: success in school, success in life.

God Bless,

Jim DeMint

P.S. The only way to save the country that our founders gave to us is to stand up and fight for freedom.