Stavrinakis not going after District 1 seat - WCIV-TV | ABC News 4 - Charleston News, Sports, Weather

Stavrinakis not going after District 1 seat

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) -- Democratic state Rep. Leon Stavrinakis said on Wednesday that he would not seek the U.S. House seat left open by Tim Scott. 

Scott was recently appointed to the Senate by Gov. Nikki Haley after Sen. Jim DeMint announced he was leaving the body to take up a leadership role at a conservative think tank. 

Stavrinakis issued the following statement:

"Over the past few days many friends, family members and constituents have reached out to encourage me to seek the now vacant first district seat in the United States Congress. I am humbled by the confidence and trust so many have shown in me. I am also mindful of my duty to serve my community, state and country in the most effective way possible.

After much thought and careful consideration with my family, I have decided to remain close to home with my wonderful wife and children. In addition, I am honored to represent Charleston County in the South Carolina House of Representatives. District 119 and Charleston are the best our state has to offer and I am honored to continue working to keep it that way."