Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) is planning to launch an exploratory committee for president on Wednesday, according to a source familiar with his plans. The move would make him the first Republican to initiate such a committee for the 2024 elections, signaling his intent and ambition towards running for the presidency.
The senator has scheduled events in Iowa on Wednesday, where he will be addressing supporters and discussing preliminary campaign strategies. The Post and Courier were the first to report on these developments.
Tim Scott's decision puts him on a collision course with two key GOP allies: Nikki Haley, who appointed him as Senator in 2012 when she was governor of South Carolina, and former President Donald Trump. Both have been speculated as potential contenders for the upcoming presidential race within their party.
Scott has hinted at presidential aspirations over time but provided perhaps his most direct indication during a November 2022 election victory party speech wherein he addressed an enthusiastic crowd of supporters.
Johnathan Michaels, political analyst from Greenville University noted: "Senator Scott's announcement comes at an interesting time in American politics when Republicans are looking forward to regaining control of both houses of Congress."
His colleague Sarah Thompson added: "This may very well be just what they need – someone like Senator Tim Scott who can unite people across different factions within the party."
Despite this early announcement by Sen. Tim Scott, it remains uncertain whether other prominent figures within the Republican Party will join him in launching their respective exploratory committees or announcing their candidacy outrightly.
As more information becomes available regarding Sen. Tim Scott's future plans and potential competitors in this race emerge—both from within his own party as well as Democratic candidates—the public eye will remain closely tuned into what promises to be yet another heated battle between politicians vying for America's highest office come 2024.