South Carolina State House District 4

Current seat holder: David R. Hiott.

Derrick Kruse

Derrick Kruse is a Democratic candidate for the South Carolina House of Representatives in District 4 (PICKENS) on the November 3, 2026 general election ballot. Derrick Kruse served in the U.S. Air Force from 1996 to 2002.

Campaign site

“Affordable Living. Making sure working families can afford to live, work, and build a future here without being priced out of their our own community.” (Ballotpedia 2026 Candidate Connection Survey)
“Access to basic needs. Improving access to the healthcare, housing, and essential services our neighbors need.” (Ballotpedia 2026 Candidate Connection Survey)
“Responsible Growth. Building for the future without losing what makes our communities special.” (Ballotpedia 2026 Candidate Connection Survey)

Clay Counts

Clay Counts is a Republican candidate for the South Carolina House of Representatives in District 4 (PICKENS) on the November 3, 2026 general election ballot. Certified by the South Carolina State Election Commission after filing on March 2026, Clay Counts faces Derrick Kruse in an open-seat race covering PICKENS.

Campaign site

“Clay Counts is committed to the principles upon which our nation was founded.” (Campaign Website)
“Our government is designed to be by the people, for the people. Limiting government intrusion into our lives and businesses, preserving our underlying culture, and representing our citizens' interests first are key to our success.” (Campaign Website)
“When our nation was created, the founders were intentional and specific in how our government should be structured. The federal government today has powers well beyond what it was ever intended to have. It is our job to reign in their overreach. On a state level, our government should create as little burden as possible to its citizens.” (Campaign Website)