ROCK HILL, S.C. — York County business owner and community advocate Mallory Dittmer has entered the race for South Carolina’s 5th Congressional District, pledging to bring “a new chapter of unity, liberty, and prosperity” to the region.
“South Carolina is ready for a new generation of leadership,” Dittmer said. “Congress is full of party-obsessed politicians who divided the most patriotic country in the world. They need to be replaced in 2026.”
A former fashion industry professional turned small business owner, Dittmer co-founded Community Advocates for Public Education York County, a nonpartisan group supporting public schools. In 2024, she helped manage local campaigns that won seven of nine races.
“As a small business owner, mom of two, and wife of a public school teacher, I see the impact of divisive leadership every day,” she said. “It’s time to restore unity and common sense in Washington.”
The seat is open as U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman runs for governor in 2026. The 5th District includes Lancaster, York, Chester, Union, Fairfield, Lee, Kershaw, Cherokee, and parts of Spartanburg and Sumter counties.
Dittmer joins Democrat Andrew Clough in the race, while Republicans State Sen. Wes Climer and Bill Bledsoe have also announced campaigns.
“I don’t recognize the country I’m raising my kids in,” Dittmer said. “It’s time to bring hope and leadership that unites, not divides.”
Learn more about Dittmer at https://www.dittmerforcongress.com/
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