Representative Luke Samuel Rankin

Luke Samuel Rankin is an American politician representing South Carolina House District 14, which encompasses Laurens County. Born on August 16, 1997, he is a member of the Republican Party. Rankin was elected to the state house in 2024, running unopposed in both the Republican primary and general election. Prior to his election to the state legislature, he served as a member of Laurens County Council and as chair of the Laurens County Republican Party.

Education

Rankin attended the University of South Carolina, where he earned his undergraduate degree in 1984 and his Juris Doctor in 1987.

Political Experience

In the South Carolina House of Representatives, Rankin serves on two committees: the House Agriculture, Natural Resources & Environmental Affairs Committee and the Rules Committee. His path to the state house came after Republican incumbent Stewart Jones filed to run for South Carolina Congressional District 3 when Congressman Jeff Duncan announced his retirement. Rankin then filed for the state house seat vacated by Jones. His candidacy received an endorsement from South Carolina House member John McCravy.

Throughout his local political career, Rankin has focused on supporting law enforcement, including efforts to secure funding for increased deputy salaries and equipment for the sheriff's office. He has also supported veterans' initiatives and advocated for controlled development in Laurens County. His conservative activism, particularly his work as chairman of the Laurens County Republican Party, earned him the 2022 Young Republican of the Year Award from the South Carolina Republican Party.