St. Helena Island’s Race for House District 121 Heats Up
As the idyllic Sea Islands of northern Beaufort County gear up for the upcoming election, the race for House District 121 is drawing attention—and some friendly competition! The incumbent, Michael Rivers, has served as a representative for St. Helena Island for eight years, while he faces a strong challenge from Shelley Gay Yuhas, a retired businesswoman from Fripp Island.
Meet the Candidates
Michael Rivers, a 66-year-old Democrat, is keen on securing his sixth consecutive term. He’s not only a familiar face among the residents he grew up with but also brings along a wealth of experience. Before his time in the statehouse, he served 18 years on the Beaufort County School Board. Rivers boasts about his salt-of-the-earth upbringing and deep understanding of local issues, touching on everything from education reforms to community resources.
On the other side of the political aisle, we have Shelley Gay Yuhas, a spirited 61-year-old Republican and a Beaufort native. She’s a retired CFO with extensive experience in both business and not-for-profit sectors. Yuhas is eager to make a difference and believes the time for change has arrived. With a heartfelt desire to connect with families, she emphasizes that she wants to be the voice that actively works for the community.
A Diverse District
House District 121 is a sprawling area, home to about 42,000 residents. It covers the picturesque landscapes of Fripp Island and much of St. Helena, stretching inland to various communities like Burton, Gray’s Hill, and Walterboro. It’s an area rich in culture and history, with the renowned ACE Basin—a spot celebrated for its stunning views and wildlife conservation.
Rivers’ Priorities
During his campaign, Rivers has highlighted several key issues. He proudly mentioned a bill requiring cursive writing to be taught in elementary schools, though it only made it halfway through the legislative process. His commitment to social justice shines through, particularly as he calls for stronger hate crime laws, spurred on by tragic events in the past.
“It’s crucial to have measures in place to protect everyone,” Rivers pointed out. He also has strong opinions on women’s rights, viewing recent abortion laws as an attack on women’s health care freedoms. With rising costs of homeowner’s insurance significantly impacting families on fixed or modest incomes, he is campaigning for reforms there too. “It shouldn’t be that only the wealthy can afford insurance,” Rivers asserts.
Yuhas’ Vision
In contrast, Yuhas brings her background in business to the table, emphasizing the need for economic revitalization. Her passion for community service is evident as she discusses her involvement in the Lowcountry Food Bank and founding a private school. “I have the time, passion, and drive to represent our district,” she states.
She recognizes that the youth are facing unique challenges, saying, “We’re losing our children,” which fuels her desire to develop educational options and job skill preparation initiatives. Yuhas passionately advocates for safety, not only locally but also in broader contexts, and expresses a commitment to keep families connected and supported in mental health.
What Sets Them Apart
Rivers believes his humble beginnings give him an edge in understanding the needs of everyday people. His life stories resonate with residents, from childhood memories of a home that sounded like a band room during rains to his ongoing commitment to civil rights and community engagement.
Yuhas, however, accounts for her diverse life experiences, blending her personal background with professional know-how. She passionately stated, “I think we need a voice that will be active in the community,” and added her staunch support for conservation efforts to protect local habitats, emphasizing the importance of preserving the area’s heritage.
The Road Ahead
As the election date approaches, both candidates are gearing up to share their vision with the voters in this beautiful coastal district. It’s a competition that promises to highlight not only differing political views but fundamentally different lifestyles and backgrounds. The race is on, and St. Helena Island residents are encouraged to tune in, stay informed, and make their voices heard!
