Senator Kent M. Williams

Kent M. Williams was born on September 15, 1960, in Marion, South Carolina, to James and Thelma Howard Williams. He is a Democratic member of the South Carolina State Senate, representing District 30 since 2004. His district encompasses Dillon, Florence, Horry, Marion, and Marlboro Counties.

Williams has established himself as a dedicated public servant with deep roots in his community. Before his election to the state senate, he served as Chairman of the Marion County Board of Education from 1998 to 2004. He has been actively involved in various civic organizations and boards, including the Marion County Duke Endowment Board, the South Carolina State Agricultural Commission, and the Pee Dee Advisory Board for Wachovia Bank. He also serves as a member and steward of St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Education

Williams earned an Associate Degree in Science from Florence Darlington Technical College in 1981 and a Bachelor of Science degree from South Carolina State University in 1987. He remains an active alumnus of South Carolina State University and has been a strong advocate for the institution, particularly regarding infrastructure improvements and campus development.

Political Experience

Williams has served continuously in the South Carolina State Senate since 2004, winning reelection in 2016, 2020, and successfully defending his seat in 2024 against Republican challenger Rodney Berry, the Mayor of Marion.

His committee assignments include Agriculture and Natural Resources, Banking and Insurance, Ethics, Finance, Fish Game and Forestry, Labor Commerce and Industry, and Legislative Oversight. He also serves on several subcommittees focused on criminal justice, natural resources and economic development, and property tax matters.

Prior to his political career, Williams worked for Independence Federal Savings and Loan Bank in Washington, D.C. , South Carolina State University , and the Clemson Extension Service .