Governor Henry McMaster announced a leadership transition at the South Carolina State Election Commission (SEC) today, naming Columbia attorney Robert Bolchoz as the agency’s next chairman. Bolchoz will succeed retired Federal Circuit Judge Dennis W. Shedd, who recently submitted his resignation.
The appointment is set to take effect on January 22. Governor McMaster credited Judge Shedd for providing steady guidance during a critical period for the commission and maintaining public confidence in the state’s electoral process.
A Veteran of State Service
Robert Bolchoz brings over three decades of legal experience to the role. Most recently, he served as the Chairman of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) Board, a position he was appointed to in 2022.
His career in public service includes:
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Chief Deputy Attorney General: Serving the state from 1995 to 1998 and returning to the role in 2017.
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Deputy District Attorney: Seven years of service within the 9th Circuit Solicitor’s Office.
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Legal Expertise: Significant experience handling complex election law issues directly with the commission.
A graduate of The Citadel and the University of South Carolina School of Law, Bolchoz is recognized by the Governor’s office as a highly respected legal professional capable of moving the commission forward.
Departure of Judge Dennis Shedd
Judge Shedd leaves the SEC following a brief but impactful tenure that began in 2024. His career is distinguished by 12 years as a U.S. District Judge and nearly two decades on the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals, following nominations by Presidents George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush, respectively.
Filling Commission Vacancies
In addition to the chairmanship, Governor McMaster announced the appointment of Angela Stringer to the commission. A resident of Anderson, Stringer will fill the vacancy left by Linda McCall, who resigned last summer.
Stringer possesses direct experience in election administration through her current role on the Anderson County Board of Voter Registration and Elections. Beyond her civic involvement, she serves as the Executive Director of the Cancer Association of Anderson and holds a position in the South Carolina State Guard. Her professional background also includes a decade as the Director of Communications for Anderson County.
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