August 2025 Advocacy Updates
Thank you to all of our members who took time in recent weeks to complete our annual Member Survey. Many of you also responded to additional follow-up surveys to help us dig deeper into specific pain points that were uncovered. Your input is critical to our ability to advocate for our local-indie businesses and fight for a level playing field. You can view the full results of the 2025 Member Survey here. Our team is sharing the results of these surveys with our municipality members and government partners, and we will be using the data and stories to focus the conversation during our fall visits with state level representatives. Your input on credit card fees, tariffs and fair pricing will be shared with our federal level partners. We take great pride in being the go-to champion for Local Businesses across the Lowcountry.
Local News
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The City of Charleston’s council districts were updated in 2023 following the U.S. Census and redistricting process. As we approach the 2025 City Council elections, it’s important to confirm your current district. Use their interactive map to check your district now. Thinking about running? Candidate filing is open from August 4 until August 18 at noon, per City Code.
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Mayor Haynie announced plans to run for re-election for the Town of Mount Pleasant this fall. - via ABC News 4
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The Town of Mount Pleasant recently announced its candidate filing period for the upcoming municipal election, scheduled for Tuesday, November 4, 2025. The filing period will open at 12 p.m. on Monday, August 4 and close at 12 p.m. on Monday, August 18, 2025. The following seats will be on the ballot: Mayor, four (4) town council seats. Learn more.
State News
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The latest on the 2026 South Carolina gubernatorial election as more candidates enter the race – via Live 5 News
Other Goodies
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Learning opportunity with Small Business Majority: “Small business owner policy & advocacy briefing: How to make your lawmakers listen” - Tune in Tues, Aug 5 at 2pm ET. Register here.
- Wondering how the recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill, tariffs and tax code changes will impact your small business? Watch as U.S. Chamber of Commerce Chief Policy Officer Neil Bradley recently provided timely insights to help you plan ahead in a rapidly changing policy environment.
Questions? Input? E-mail Jordan@lowcountrylocalfirst.org