By Delayna Earley
The Island News
Congressional candidate Mac Deford spoke to interested Beaufortonians on Thursday, Sept. 21, during the North of Broad Democratic Club Meeting.
Deford is running against incumbent Republican Representative Nancy Mace because he says that she “lacks authentic commitment to the Lowcountry.”
This was Deford’s first time speaking to the group.
“I wanted to come and introduce myself,” said Deford. “I represent a newer generation of leadership. There has been a big call for that, especially here in the Lowcountry.”
Deford said he has dedicated his life to public service.
He served in the Coast Guard and as an attorney for local governments.
Deford said that he wanted to come and let people know that he is running and let them know what is at stake in next year’s election.
During his appearance, Deford discussed abortion and book banning.
He shared a personal story about his grandmother, who lost her life due to a “back room” abortion at the age of 32 in pre-Roe vs. Wade America.
“Sent my mom at the age of five and a half into a broken foster care system. When the state looked at my grandfather and made the unilateral decision that he couldn’t take care of any children,” Deford said.
He said that the same laws that cost his grandmother’s life are the “law of the land now.”
“We also need to get serious about how we’re going to address other issues, and even local issues,” Deford said.
Deford said that he thinks voters are looking for authentic people to serve in Congress and he is that person.
“I think that people are getting tired of seeing the reality TV show drama unfolding in Washington, and they want to see people who are actually serious about getting work,” said Deford.
Deford said that the Lowcountry is a very special place and he has lived here most of his adult life.
I’m really excited about this opportunity to fill in the gaps between what is needed here on the ground, what the people really need to prosper here, and what’s happening in Washington,” Deford said.
Delayna Earley lives in Beaufort with her husband, two children and Jack Russell. She formerly worked as a photojournalist for The Island Packet/The Beaufort Gazette, as well as newspapers in Indiana and Virginia. She joined The Island News in 2022. She can be reached at delayna.theislandnews@gmail.com.
