Hargett says he'll seek seat in Legislature

It's official. Dorchester County Councilman Larry Hargett will run for the Statehouse seat held for 10 terms by Annette Young.

Hargett formally announced his bid Thursday, three weeks after saying he would explore whether to run.

Young said earlier that she will wait until January to announce if she will. She declined to comment on the Hargett announcement. Filing for the District 98 seat opens in March 2010 for the November 2010 election.

The prospective candidates, both Republicans, would face a June 2010 primary.

Hargett made the announcement from a podium at the Wescott Plantation clubhouse in North Charleston in front of more than 70 supporters. He said he is deeply concerned about General Assembly actions that have reduced funding for local governments and constituents and increased mandated services without the funds to pay for them.

He championed the county's record of maintaining a fund balance without raising taxes while continuing to provide services.

"I will also place emphasis at the state level to help arrest the current breakdown of American morals, integrity, honesty and character," Hargett told the audience in a prepared speech.

Reach Bo Petersen at 937-5744 or bpetersen@postandcourier.com.