Ed Sutton is a Democratic State Senator representing District 20 in the South Carolina Senate, covering parts of Charleston County including downtown Charleston, West Ashley, and James Island. A small business owner and decorated Air Force Reserve veteran, he assumed office on January 8, 2025, after winning the 2024 election against Libertarian Kendal Ludden by over 20,000 votes . Notable achievements include flying C-17 missions worldwide, including a 2021 evacuation of nearly 1,000 Afghan refugees from Kabul, owning Simply Commercial Real Estate focused on historic restorations and mixed-use developments, founding the Reynolds Avenue Merchants Association to revitalize North Charleston, and serving on the board of Art Forms and Theater Concepts.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Holds a degree in Business Administration from The Citadel and a master’s in Military Operations from the Air Force Air Command and Staff College.
• Military Service: Served nine years on active duty flying C-17 cargo planes; joined Air Force Reserves in 2014/2015, where he instructs pilots and continues worldwide missions.
• Professional Experience: Worked as a realtor aiding military families; launched his development company in 2017.
• Political Experience: Previously ran unsuccessfully for South Carolina House District 114 against Republican Lin Bennett; announced Senate candidacy on November 18, 2023, for the newly redistricted seat. Active in community organizations like the Rotary Club of Charleston and Roper St. Francis Foundation.