Bedenbaugh Announces Candidacy as Independent Representative for Third District
NEWBERRY – Mike Bedenbaugh, a lifelong resident of Prosperity, South Carolina, has officially announced his bid for the position of House of Representatives for the Third District of South Carolina. With a commitment to service that has spanned over three decades, Bedenbaugh strives to continue his efforts to better the community that he cherishes.
Past Service and Aspirations
Having served in various capacities in his community, in addition to serving in the Navy, Bedenbaugh has a theme of service running strongly through his life. On returning from his naval duties in the 1980s, Bedenbaugh said, “I got involved in setting up the first Planning Commission here in Newberry County.” He has also served as head of the Board of Zoning Appeals and ran as an independent write-in candidate for Prosperity’s Town Council, which he won.
After retirement, Bedenbaugh has stayed committed to helping his community. “Since retiring, I have sought ways to continue to better the place we all call home,” he shared. His choice to run as an independent candidate stems from the desire to serve his people based on his personal beliefs rather than being confined by party lines.
The Independent Path
Bedenbaugh specifically mentioned his preference for an unaffiliated candidacy, as he believes it offers him the freedom to voice his own beliefs instead of echoing party lines. “I saw the best route for my access is to have a free voice without having a party tell me what lines I can stay inside of,” he explained.
To present his views to the public, Bedenbaugh has published what he terms the “95 Theses.” This extensive list covers a wide range of issues including domestic and foreign affairs, economics, limiting corporate power in politics, highlighting the responsibilities of those in power, and aspiring to self-impose term limits.
95 Theses: A New Approach to Politics
Bedenbaugh’s “95 Theses” are aimed at providing a comprehensive understanding of his beliefs and the principles he would follow if elected. He hopes that this would not only make his agenda clear to the voters but also present a new approach to politics where the candidate is transparent about his views and intends to fulfil them if elected.
In a political environment frequently dominated by the major two parties, Bedenbaugh’s move to run as an independent highlights a growing desire for more diverse representation in politics. With his extensive background in public service, Bedenbaugh hopes his candidacy will inspire more individuals to venture into politics, irrespective of their political affiliations.
