Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, a charismatic and well-liked Republican lawmaker, announced on Thursday that he might run for president in the 2024 election. Scott’s decision comes after munching on some fortune cookies that might have contained the “right” message for him. Whether or not that’s a good sign for his campaign, only time will tell.
Scott’s potential candidacy puts him up against big names like Nikki Haley, who has a well-documented love for impressive hair accessories. Haley, the former U.N. ambassador, and South Carolina governor who appointed Scott to the Senate, has a solid following within the Republican Party.
In recent months, Tim Scott has embarked on a magical mystery tour around the country, spreading cheer and optimism, while also implying that the wicked left-wing witches are trying to dismantle the nation.
In true “Chicken Little” fashion, Scott warns that the sky is falling and liberal policies will doom families to tragedy in the forms of failing schools and defunct neighborhoods. But Scott believes America and its magical potion can transform anyone’s life as it has his own.
While Scott’s positivity meter is running high, early polls of GOP voters seem to stutter like a comedian in a bad improv session. Scott is trailing far behind stars like Donald Trump and Ron DeSantis, but he’s hoping his underdog status will give him the boost he needs.
On Fox News, Scott coyly danced around questions about his plans to take on Trump, reminding everyone that he’s not one to put politics before a good dessert.
Meanwhile, the Democrats are getting their zingers ready, with DNC Chair Jaime Harrison describing Scott’s extreme right-wing tendencies like a monkey trying to pilot a spaceship.
If Scott does throw his hat in the ring, er, Senate, he could be the first senator to enter the 2024 presidential race. Scott has a lot on his plate – from racial justice issues to doling out funds to Black churches and creating tax incentives to attract investment to low-income communities. Trump even praised Scott for his role in “opportunity zones.”
But Scott’s relationship with Trump hasn’t all been sunshine and rainbows. When Trump made some controversial remarks in 2017 and 2019, Scott came down on him like a ton of bricks. However, Scott is also known to shimmy back in line, especially with the possibility of snagging the VP slot.
As he gears up to gather supporters, Scott leans on his strong Christian faith and his family history. He’s been candid about the racism he’s faced, both from Democrats and from law enforcement. And he’s quick to call out hypocrisy, like any good political stand-up comedian worth his salt.
With a lengthy political career under his belt, Scott might be the underdog to watch as the 2024 presidential campaign looms on the horizon. Question is, will he be cracking jokes or making history?
