William Mac Deford

[{"question": "Ballotpedia survey responses", "answer_html": "<p>See also: <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a></p>\n<div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-10 col-md-6 col-xs-offset-1 col-md-offset-3\"><p><a href=\"https://ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\"><img align=\"middle\" alt=\"Candidate Connection\" src=\"https://cdn.ballotpedia.org/images/8/88/Candidate_Connection_Logo.png\" width=\"90%\"/></a></p></div></div>\n<p>Mac Deford completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Deford's responses.</p>\n<p><span class=\"expand-all\">Expand all</span> | <span class=\"collapse-all\">Collapse all</span></p>\n<div aria-multiselectable=\"true\" class=\"panel-group\" id=\"accordion\" role=\"tablist\"><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading-bio-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho are you? Tell us about yourself.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-bio-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI’m Mac Deford, a U.S. Coast Guard veteran, attorney, and part of a new generation of leadership in the Lowcountry. I enlisted at 18 in the U.S. Coast Guard, learning firsthand what integrity, service, and accountability truly mean. After earning my law degree, I advised some of South Carolina’s top municipalities, helping guide them through crises like COVID-19, securing federal funds, and advancing priorities like coastal protection, infrastructure, and attainable housing.\r\nI’m running for Congress because our district needs practical, service-driven leadership—not performative politics. I’ve lived the challenges working families face, and I’ve spent my career solving problems, defending constitutional principles, and expanding opportunity for the people of the Lowcountry. I believe government should put people over partisanship and focus on issues that actually improve lives.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading-key-message-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tPlease list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-key-message-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>Affordability Crisis: Families in the Lowcountry are being priced out. I’m focused on lowering costs for housing, healthcare, and everyday essentials so people can build stable lives and retire with dignity.</li><li>Constitutional Crisis: Our democracy is under strain. As a U.S. Coast Guard veteran and attorney who swore an oath to defend the Constitution, I’ll stand up for the rule of law, checks and balances, and the peaceful transfer of power.</li><li>Corruption Crisis: Washington works for special interests, not people. I’ll fight to ban stock trading by members of Congress, strengthen ethics laws, and make government accountable to the public.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading1-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading1-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tForeign policy, transportation &amp; infrastructure, environmental conservation, crime prevention, affordable housing, education, and health care.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading2-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading2-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI look up to leaders who understood that public service is a moral calling. Bobby Kennedy showed what compassion and courage look like in moments of national division, and his belief in justice for every person still inspires me. I admire President James Garfield for his honesty, intellectual rigor, and willingness to confront corruption at a time when it was easier to look the other way. Senator John McCain embodied integrity and sacrifice, and his life reminds me that strength and decency can exist side by side. I also look to John Lewis, whose unwavering commitment to human dignity and voting rights set a standard for moral leadership that few will ever match.<br/><br/>\r\nI try to follow their example by leading with fairness, speaking hard truths when necessary, and remembering that public service is about people, not personal ambition.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading3-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading3-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tAn elected official must lead with integrity, honesty, and a commitment to the people they serve. For me, the most important principles are accountability, respect for the Constitution, and a willingness to listen. Public service is about solving problems, not scoring political points, so humility and transparency matter. Leaders should be guided by facts, grounded in fairness, and willing to work across differences to deliver real results. Above all, an elected official must remember that the job is a trust—not a platform—and that every decision should put people before partisanship.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading4-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading4-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe core responsibilities of a Member of Congress are to uphold the Constitution, represent the people of the district with honesty and independence, and deliver results that improve their daily lives. That means writing and voting on laws that strengthen our economy, protect our freedoms, and keep our nation safe. It means providing effective constituent services, ensuring federal agencies are responsive, and helping people navigate real problems. It also means exercising oversight over the executive branch and guarding against abuses of power. Ultimately, the job is to listen, lead, and put the interests of the Lowcountry first.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading5-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat legacy would you like to leave?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading5-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI want to leave a legacy of service that made life better for the people of the Lowcountry. I hope to be remembered as someone who put integrity ahead of politics, who listened, who worked hard, and who never forgot the families and communities I served. I want my legacy to reflect real progress on issues like affordability, coastal protection, and economic opportunity, and a commitment to strengthening our democracy for the next generation. If people can say I helped restore trust in public leadership and left things a little better than I found them, that would be enough.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading6-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading6-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\t9/11 terrorist attacks. I was in 7th grade math class.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading7-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was your very first job? How long did you have it?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading7-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI worked on my family's farm during the summer throughout my childhood.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading8-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is your favorite book? Why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading8-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tMy favorite book is The Past That Would Not Die by Walter Lord. I value it because Lord examines one of the most difficult chapters in our history with honesty, clarity, and a deep respect for the truth. He shows how the legacy of racial injustice continues to shape our country and why confronting that history is essential to building a more just society. The book reminds me that real progress requires both moral courage and an unflinching look at where we have fallen short. It has shaped the way I think about public service and the responsibility we have to learn from the past while working toward a better future.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading9-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is something that has been a struggle in your life?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading9-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tOne of the biggest struggles in my life has been coping with the lingering effects of some of the search and rescue cases I handled during my time in the United States Coast Guard. Serving as a responder meant witnessing tragedy up close, and there were cases that stayed with me long after the missions ended. I did not have the vocabulary for it at the time, but looking back, I carried symptoms of PTSD that I tried to push aside rather than address.<br/><br/>\r\nWhat helped me was finally acknowledging it, talking about it, and realizing that many veterans and first responders face similar challenges. It reminded me that strength is not avoiding difficult experiences but learning how to live with them in a healthy way. It also deepened my commitment to supporting mental health resources for service members, veterans, and anyone who carries trauma from serving their community.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading10-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading10-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe House is unique because it is closest to the people. Members serve short terms, represent smaller geographical areas, and are expected to stay directly connected to the daily lives and concerns of their constituents. The House is designed to be the nation’s most responsive democratic institution, where diverse communities and viewpoints come together to debate ideas in real time. Its power of the purse and its central role in legislative oversight give it a critical responsibility in safeguarding our democracy. At its best, the House reflects the full energy, complexity, and urgency of the American people.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading11-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading11-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tYes, I believe experience in government or public service can be highly beneficial, because it helps a representative understand how policy is made, how federal agencies work, and how to navigate complex issues on behalf of constituents. That said, experience alone is not enough. What matters just as much is judgment, integrity, and a genuine commitment to serving the people—not a political class. I’ve worked in local government and as an attorney advising communities across the Lowcountry, and that experience taught me how to solve problems, cut through bureaucracy, and deliver results. The right kind of experience can make a representative more effective from day one.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading12-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse12-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading12-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse12-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tOver the next decade, the United States faces challenges that will define our future. We must prepare for the impact of artificial intelligence on jobs and the economy, ensuring innovation doesn’t leave workers behind. Climate change threatens our coasts, our farms, and our national security, and we need serious, practical action to protect our communities. China’s growing influence and aggression demand a stronger, more coordinated American strategy rooted in diplomacy, economic competitiveness, and military readiness. At home, rising health care costs continue to strain families and small businesses, and the lack of attainable housing is pricing people out of the very communities they serve. How we confront these challenges will determine whether the next generation inherits a stronger nation or a more divided one.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading13-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse13-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading13-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse13-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI respect the purpose behind the two-year term, but I believe moving to a three- or four-year term would better serve the country. The current cycle forces representatives into nonstop campaigning, which can pull focus away from governing and long-term problem solving. A slightly longer term would allow members to spend more time legislating, providing oversight, and delivering for their constituents while still maintaining strong accountability. We can keep the House responsive to the people without requiring members to run for re-election the moment they take office.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading14-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse14-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat are your thoughts on term limits?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading14-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse14-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI support term limits for Members of Congress. No one should make a lifelong career out of holding power, and our democracy is stronger when new voices and new ideas have a real chance to lead. Term limits help reduce entrenched influence, curb corruption, and keep elected officials focused on serving the people rather than securing their own political futures. I believe public service should be a season of duty, not a destination, and term limits are an important step toward restoring accountability and trust in our government.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading15-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse15-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIs there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading15-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse15-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tWhile he wasn’t a member of the House, I’ve always looked to Senator Bobby Kennedy as a model for what public service should be. He led with compassion, moral courage, and an unwavering commitment to justice, especially for people who felt unheard or left behind. He wasn’t afraid to speak hard truths, to challenge entrenched power, or to bring people together in moments of deep division. I admire how he blended toughness with empathy and idealism with action. I try to carry that same spirit of service—grounded in fairness, dignity, and a belief that we owe each other more than politics often delivers.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading16-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse16-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tBoth sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading16-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse16-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tYes. One story stays with me. I learned that the widow of Senior Chief Terrell Edwin Horne III lives in my district. Horne was a Coast Guard hero who gave his life in December 2012 while protecting our country during a law enforcement mission off the California coast. When a suspected smuggling vessel intentionally struck his boat, he pushed his coxswain out of harm’s way and saved his life. He left behind a wife and two young sons.<br/><br/>\r\nAs a Coast Guard veteran, his story is deeply personal. It reminds me that service is not theoretical. It is real people, real courage, and real sacrifice. Meeting members of his family brought that home for me. It strengthened my belief that those of us who seek public office must lead with integrity, protect those who protect us, and honor the families who bear the cost of service.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading17-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse17-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading17-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse17-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tYes. Compromise is not only necessary, it’s often the only way to deliver meaningful results. I believe in standing firm on core values like constitutional rights and basic fairness, but solving real problems requires listening, finding common ground, and working with people who don’t always agree with you. In the Coast Guard and as an attorney, I learned that progress happens when you focus on the mission, not the politics. Good policy comes from cooperation, honest negotiation, and a willingness to put people ahead of party.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading18-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse18-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tThe Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading18-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse18-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe House’s power to originate revenue bills is a responsibility I take seriously. If elected, I would use that authority to advance tax and budget policies that genuinely help working families in the Lowcountry. That includes protecting Social Security and Medicare, investing in housing and coastal resilience, and creating a tax system that is fair and transparent.<br/><br/>\n<p>It also means rejecting policies that function as hidden taxes. Trump’s tariff policy is a prime example. His tariffs raised prices on everyday goods, increased costs for small businesses, and placed an added burden on families who were already struggling. Independent analyses have shown that these tariffs slowed economic growth and reduced real wages. A revenue system should lift people up, not make life more expensive.<br/><br/>\n</p>\nMy priority would be to craft revenue policy that strengthens the economy, supports families, and reflects responsible stewardship of public funds.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading19-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse19-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tHow should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading19-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse19-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe investigative power of the House is an essential safeguard in our system of checks and balances. It should be used responsibly and with a focus on the public interest, not as a political weapon. I believe the House should use this authority to uncover waste, fraud, and abuse, to ensure that taxpayer dollars are used wisely, and to hold both government officials and private actors accountable when they violate the law or betray the public trust.<br/><br/>\r\nOversight should be rooted in facts, guided by the Constitution, and aimed at strengthening government rather than scoring points for cable news. As a former federal law enforcement officer and attorney, I understand the importance of thorough, fair, and honest investigations. The goal should always be truth, accountability, and better governance for the people we serve.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading20-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse20-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading20-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse20-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tGov. Martin O'Malley; Congressman Tim Kennedy, State Senator Ed Sutton, Mount Pleasant Town Council Member Daniel Brownstein, Hilton Head Island Town Council Member Steven Alfred, and Harvard College Democrats, so far.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading21-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse21-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat role should the United States government have in the development or use of artificial intelligence?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading21-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse21-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe federal government should play an active and responsible role in the development and use of artificial intelligence. AI will shape our economy, our national security, and our daily lives, so we cannot leave this entirely to private industry. I believe the government must set clear rules that protect workers, safeguard personal data, and prevent AI from being used in ways that threaten civil liberties. We also need standards that ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability in both public and private use of these technologies.<br/><br/>\r\nAt the same time, the government should support research and innovation so the United States remains a global leader. We need thoughtful regulation that protects people without stifling progress. AI has enormous potential to improve health care, energy, national defense, and economic growth, but only if we guide its development with care and a firm commitment to the public good.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-359794-2025-12-02\" id=\"heading22-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse22-359794-2025-12-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat legislation would you enact related to election administration in the United States?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading22-359794-2025-12-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse22-359794-2025-12-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI would support legislation that strengthens the integrity and accessibility of our elections. That begins with protecting the right to vote and ensuring that every eligible voter can participate without unnecessary barriers. I believe in national standards for early voting, secure and convenient voter registration, and paper ballot requirements that reinforce public confidence.<br/>\n<p>Independent redistricting commissions are also important. Voters should choose their representatives, not the other way around, and removing politicians from the map-drawing process is one of the best ways to restore trust in our democracy.<br/><br/>\n</p>\nFinally, I would support stronger protections for election workers and clear rules that prevent partisan officials from overturning lawful results. Free and fair elections are the foundation of our system, and Congress has a responsibility to protect them.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div></div>\n<div class=\"small\" data-nosnippet=\"\"><p><i><b>Note:</b> Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.</i></p></div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"></div>\n<div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-10 col-md-6 col-xs-offset-1 col-md-offset-3\"><p><a href=\"https://ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\"><img align=\"middle\" alt=\"Candidate Connection\" src=\"https://cdn.ballotpedia.org/images/8/88/Candidate_Connection_Logo.png\" width=\"90%\"/></a></p></div></div>\n<p>Mac Deford completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2023. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Deford's responses.</p>\n<p><span class=\"expand-all\">Expand all</span> | <span class=\"collapse-all\">Collapse all</span></p>\n<div aria-multiselectable=\"true\" class=\"panel-group\" id=\"accordion\" role=\"tablist\"><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-193022-2023-09-27\" id=\"heading-bio-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-193022-2023-09-27\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho are you? Tell us about yourself.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-bio-193022-2023-09-27\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tAt 34 years old, I represent a new wave of American leadership. I served honorably in the U.S. Coast Guard as a federal law enforcement officer and search and rescue crewman. Later, I went on to graduate from The Citadel and Charleston School of Law, and will soon complete my MBA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. My experience spans both corporate and public sectors. As an attorney, I advised top executives for a publicly-traded software company in Charleston, then later served as Associate General Counsel for the Town of Mount Pleasant and General Counsel for the Town of Hilton Head Island. With a foundation built on service, I am eager to bring forward-thinking solutions to the challenges of our times.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-193022-2023-09-27\" id=\"heading-key-message-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-193022-2023-09-27\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tPlease list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-key-message-193022-2023-09-27\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>Service Beyond Self. From my service in the U.S. Coast Guard to tackling complex issues for some of South Carolina's most notable municipalities, I've consistently put people first. This unwaivering commitment to public service is what drives my desire to serve South Carolina's 1st Congressional District in Washington.</li><li>A New Era of Leadership. Representing a new generation doesn't just mean a change in age, but a change in vision and approach. I'm commitment to transparent and innovative leadership to find solutions to the challenges of our times.</li><li>Actions Over Words. From the Coast Guard to serving our communities as a lawyer, I stand for leadership that doesn't just plan, but actively executes and delivers for every member of our community.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-193022-2023-09-27\" id=\"heading1-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-193022-2023-09-27\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading1-193022-2023-09-27\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tDefending Women's Reproductive Rights. My maternal grandmother lost her life at age 32 in the 1960s following a backroom abortion because she was denied access to safe reproductive healthcare. Her story serves as a stark reminder of the dire consequences of denying women their right to choose. Her death forced my mother into a broken foster care system at age 5 1/2, further highlighting the impact of extreme abortion bans. I am staunchly committed to the codification of a federal protection guaranteeing women the right to make their own healthcare decisions. <br/><br/>\n<p>Strengthening Public Education. I believe that education forms the cornerstone of our society. We must urgently invest heavily in this area. I am an advocate for federal support in education, which includes increasing funding for public schools and elevating standards of education, ensuring every child has a chance for a brighter future. <br/><br/>\n</p>\nChampioning Youth Engagement. The sit-in movement, which resulted in the Civil Rights Act of 1964, started with a few college students. I am a fervent believer in the potential of our younger generation. Every era has its defining challenge, and it appears that my generation is rallying around the dignity of the individual. I am committed to the inclusion of our nation's youth in shaping the future of America.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-193022-2023-09-27\" id=\"heading2-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-193022-2023-09-27\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIs there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading2-193022-2023-09-27\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe Past That Would Not Die, by Walter Lord. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-193022-2023-09-27\" id=\"heading3-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-193022-2023-09-27\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading3-193022-2023-09-27\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tIntegrity, transparency, and a dedication to public service. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-193022-2023-09-27\" id=\"heading4-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-193022-2023-09-27\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading4-193022-2023-09-27\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI am deeply compassionate and genuinely care about people and our communities. This compassion, however, does not detract from my determination or willpower. When faced with challenges or when advocating for the rights of our citizens, I am a fierce fighter. Throughout my life and career, I take with all seriousness responsibility that I am entrusted with. I believe in the sanctity of responsibility and the commitments that I am counted on to follow out. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-193022-2023-09-27\" id=\"heading5-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-193022-2023-09-27\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading5-193022-2023-09-27\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\t(1) To be a spokesperson for the district; to shine a spotlight on the people and communities that are thriving as well as those who need our support; and (2) to be an advocate, fighting for what the district needs. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-193022-2023-09-27\" id=\"heading6-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-193022-2023-09-27\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading6-193022-2023-09-27\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tYes, I think it is imperative. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-193022-2023-09-27\" id=\"heading7-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-193022-2023-09-27\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading7-193022-2023-09-27\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tManaging technological advancements and climate change. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-193022-2023-09-27\" id=\"heading8-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-193022-2023-09-27\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading8-193022-2023-09-27\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tNo, I believe a 4 year term would be more effective and appropriate. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-193022-2023-09-27\" id=\"heading9-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-193022-2023-09-27\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat are your thoughts on term limits?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading9-193022-2023-09-27\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI support term limits. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-193022-2023-09-27\" id=\"heading10-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-193022-2023-09-27\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading10-193022-2023-09-27\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-193022-2023-09-27\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tYes. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div></div>\n<div class=\"small\" data-nosnippet=\"\"><p><i><b>Note:</b> Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.</i></p></div>", "answer_text": "See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection\n\nMac Deford completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Deford's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. I’m Mac Deford, a U.S. Coast Guard veteran, attorney, and part of a new generation of leadership in the Lowcountry. I enlisted at 18 in the U.S. Coast Guard, learning firsthand what integrity, service, and accountability truly mean. After earning my law degree, I advised some of South Carolina’s top municipalities, helping guide them through crises like COVID-19, securing federal funds, and advancing priorities like coastal protection, infrastructure, and attainable housing.\r\nI’m running for Congress because our district needs practical, service-driven leadership—not performative politics. I’ve lived the challenges working families face, and I’ve spent my career solving problems, defending constitutional principles, and expanding opportunity for the people of the Lowcountry. I believe government should put people over partisanship and focus on issues that actually improve lives. Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office? Affordability Crisis: Families in the Lowcountry are being priced out. I’m focused on lowering costs for housing, healthcare, and everyday essentials so people can build stable lives and retire with dignity. Constitutional Crisis: Our democracy is under strain. As a U.S. Coast Guard veteran and attorney who swore an oath to defend the Constitution, I’ll stand up for the rule of law, checks and balances, and the peaceful transfer of power. Corruption Crisis: Washington works for special interests, not people. I’ll fight to ban stock trading by members of Congress, strengthen ethics laws, and make government accountable to the public. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? Foreign policy, transportation & infrastructure, environmental conservation, crime prevention, affordable housing, education, and health care. Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? I look up to leaders who understood that public service is a moral calling. Bobby Kennedy showed what compassion and courage look like in moments of national division, and his belief in justice for every person still inspires me. I admire President James Garfield for his honesty, intellectual rigor, and willingness to confront corruption at a time when it was easier to look the other way. Senator John McCain embodied integrity and sacrifice, and his life reminds me that strength and decency can exist side by side. I also look to John Lewis, whose unwavering commitment to human dignity and voting rights set a standard for moral leadership that few will ever match. I try to follow their example by leading with fairness, speaking hard truths when necessary, and remembering that public service is about people, not personal ambition. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? An elected official must lead with integrity, honesty, and a commitment to the people they serve. For me, the most important principles are accountability, respect for the Constitution, and a willingness to listen. Public service is about solving problems, not scoring political points, so humility and transparency matter. Leaders should be guided by facts, grounded in fairness, and willing to work across differences to deliver real results. Above all, an elected official must remember that the job is a trust—not a platform—and that every decision should put people before partisanship. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? The core responsibilities of a Member of Congress are to uphold the Constitution, represent the people of the district with honesty and independence, and deliver results that improve their daily lives. That means writing and voting on laws that strengthen our economy, protect our freedoms, and keep our nation safe. It means providing effective constituent services, ensuring federal agencies are responsive, and helping people navigate real problems. It also means exercising oversight over the executive branch and guarding against abuses of power. Ultimately, the job is to listen, lead, and put the interests of the Lowcountry first. What legacy would you like to leave? I want to leave a legacy of service that made life better for the people of the Lowcountry. I hope to be remembered as someone who put integrity ahead of politics, who listened, who worked hard, and who never forgot the families and communities I served. I want my legacy to reflect real progress on issues like affordability, coastal protection, and economic opportunity, and a commitment to strengthening our democracy for the next generation. If people can say I helped restore trust in public leadership and left things a little better than I found them, that would be enough. What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time? 9/11 terrorist attacks. I was in 7th grade math class. What was your very first job? How long did you have it? I worked on my family's farm during the summer throughout my childhood. What is your favorite book? Why? My favorite book is The Past That Would Not Die by Walter Lord. I value it because Lord examines one of the most difficult chapters in our history with honesty, clarity, and a deep respect for the truth. He shows how the legacy of racial injustice continues to shape our country and why confronting that history is essential to building a more just society. The book reminds me that real progress requires both moral courage and an unflinching look at where we have fallen short. It has shaped the way I think about public service and the responsibility we have to learn from the past while working toward a better future. What is something that has been a struggle in your life? One of the biggest struggles in my life has been coping with the lingering effects of some of the search and rescue cases I handled during my time in the United States Coast Guard. Serving as a responder meant witnessing tragedy up close, and there were cases that stayed with me long after the missions ended. I did not have the vocabulary for it at the time, but looking back, I carried symptoms of PTSD that I tried to push aside rather than address. What helped me was finally acknowledging it, talking about it, and realizing that many veterans and first responders face similar challenges. It reminded me that strength is not avoiding difficult experiences but learning how to live with them in a healthy way. It also deepened my commitment to supporting mental health resources for service members, veterans, and anyone who carries trauma from serving their community. What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution? The House is unique because it is closest to the people. Members serve short terms, represent smaller geographical areas, and are expected to stay directly connected to the daily lives and concerns of their constituents. The House is designed to be the nation’s most responsive democratic institution, where diverse communities and viewpoints come together to debate ideas in real time. Its power of the purse and its central role in legislative oversight give it a critical responsibility in safeguarding our democracy. At its best, the House reflects the full energy, complexity, and urgency of the American people. Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics? Yes, I believe experience in government or public service can be highly beneficial, because it helps a representative understand how policy is made, how federal agencies work, and how to navigate complex issues on behalf of constituents. That said, experience alone is not enough. What matters just as much is judgment, integrity, and a genuine commitment to serving the people—not a political class. I’ve worked in local government and as an attorney advising communities across the Lowcountry, and that experience taught me how to solve problems, cut through bureaucracy, and deliver results. The right kind of experience can make a representative more effective from day one. What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade? Over the next decade, the United States faces challenges that will define our future. We must prepare for the impact of artificial intelligence on jobs and the economy, ensuring innovation doesn’t leave workers behind. Climate change threatens our coasts, our farms, and our national security, and we need serious, practical action to protect our communities. China’s growing influence and aggression demand a stronger, more coordinated American strategy rooted in diplomacy, economic competitiveness, and military readiness. At home, rising health care costs continue to strain families and small businesses, and the lack of attainable housing is pricing people out of the very communities they serve. How we confront these challenges will determine whether the next generation inherits a stronger nation or a more divided one. Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives? I respect the purpose behind the two-year term, but I believe moving to a three- or four-year term would better serve the country. The current cycle forces representatives into nonstop campaigning, which can pull focus away from governing and long-term problem solving. A slightly longer term would allow members to spend more time legislating, providing oversight, and delivering for their constituents while still maintaining strong accountability. We can keep the House responsive to the people without requiring members to run for re-election the moment they take office. What are your thoughts on term limits? I support term limits for Members of Congress. No one should make a lifelong career out of holding power, and our democracy is stronger when new voices and new ideas have a real chance to lead. Term limits help reduce entrenched influence, curb corruption, and keep elected officials focused on serving the people rather than securing their own political futures. I believe public service should be a season of duty, not a destination, and term limits are an important step toward restoring accountability and trust in our government. Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after? While he wasn’t a member of the House, I’ve always looked to Senator Bobby Kennedy as a model for what public service should be. He led with compassion, moral courage, and an unwavering commitment to justice, especially for people who felt unheard or left behind. He wasn’t afraid to speak hard truths, to challenge entrenched power, or to bring people together in moments of deep division. I admire how he blended toughness with empathy and idealism with action. I try to carry that same spirit of service—grounded in fairness, dignity, and a belief that we owe each other more than politics often delivers. Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful? Yes. One story stays with me. I learned that the widow of Senior Chief Terrell Edwin Horne III lives in my district. Horne was a Coast Guard hero who gave his life in December 2012 while protecting our country during a law enforcement mission off the California coast. When a suspected smuggling vessel intentionally struck his boat, he pushed his coxswain out of harm’s way and saved his life. He left behind a wife and two young sons. As a Coast Guard veteran, his story is deeply personal. It reminds me that service is not theoretical. It is real people, real courage, and real sacrifice. Meeting members of his family brought that home for me. It strengthened my belief that those of us who seek public office must lead with integrity, protect those who protect us, and honor the families who bear the cost of service. Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking? Yes. Compromise is not only necessary, it’s often the only way to deliver meaningful results. I believe in standing firm on core values like constitutional rights and basic fairness, but solving real problems requires listening, finding common ground, and working with people who don’t always agree with you. In the Coast Guard and as an attorney, I learned that progress happens when you focus on the mission, not the politics. Good policy comes from cooperation, honest negotiation, and a willingness to put people ahead of party. The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected? The House’s power to originate revenue bills is a responsibility I take seriously. If elected, I would use that authority to advance tax and budget policies that genuinely help working families in the Lowcountry. That includes protecting Social Security and Medicare, investing in housing and coastal resilience, and creating a tax system that is fair and transparent. It also means rejecting policies that function as hidden taxes. Trump’s tariff policy is a prime example. His tariffs raised prices on everyday goods, increased costs for small businesses, and placed an added burden on families who were already struggling. Independent analyses have shown that these tariffs slowed economic growth and reduced real wages. A revenue system should lift people up, not make life more expensive. My priority would be to craft revenue policy that strengthens the economy, supports families, and reflects responsible stewardship of public funds. How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers? The investigative power of the House is an essential safeguard in our system of checks and balances. It should be used responsibly and with a focus on the public interest, not as a political weapon. I believe the House should use this authority to uncover waste, fraud, and abuse, to ensure that taxpayer dollars are used wisely, and to hold both government officials and private actors accountable when they violate the law or betray the public trust. Oversight should be rooted in facts, guided by the Constitution, and aimed at strengthening government rather than scoring points for cable news. As a former federal law enforcement officer and attorney, I understand the importance of thorough, fair, and honest investigations. The goal should always be truth, accountability, and better governance for the people we serve. What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign? Gov. Martin O'Malley; Congressman Tim Kennedy, State Senator Ed Sutton, Mount Pleasant Town Council Member Daniel Brownstein, Hilton Head Island Town Council Member Steven Alfred, and Harvard College Democrats, so far. What role should the United States government have in the development or use of artificial intelligence? The federal government should play an active and responsible role in the development and use of artificial intelligence. AI will shape our economy, our national security, and our daily lives, so we cannot leave this entirely to private industry. I believe the government must set clear rules that protect workers, safeguard personal data, and prevent AI from being used in ways that threaten civil liberties. We also need standards that ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability in both public and private use of these technologies. At the same time, the government should support research and innovation so the United States remains a global leader. We need thoughtful regulation that protects people without stifling progress. AI has enormous potential to improve health care, energy, national defense, and economic growth, but only if we guide its development with care and a firm commitment to the public good. What legislation would you enact related to election administration in the United States? I would support legislation that strengthens the integrity and accessibility of our elections. That begins with protecting the right to vote and ensuring that every eligible voter can participate without unnecessary barriers. I believe in national standards for early voting, secure and convenient voter registration, and paper ballot requirements that reinforce public confidence. Independent redistricting commissions are also important. Voters should choose their representatives, not the other way around, and removing politicians from the map-drawing process is one of the best ways to restore trust in our democracy. Finally, I would support stronger protections for election workers and clear rules that prevent partisan officials from overturning lawful results. Free and fair elections are the foundation of our system, and Congress has a responsibility to protect them.\nNote: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.\n\n\nMac Deford completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2023. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Deford's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. At 34 years old, I represent a new wave of American leadership. I served honorably in the U.S. Coast Guard as a federal law enforcement officer and search and rescue crewman. Later, I went on to graduate from The Citadel and Charleston School of Law, and will soon complete my MBA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. My experience spans both corporate and public sectors. As an attorney, I advised top executives for a publicly-traded software company in Charleston, then later served as Associate General Counsel for the Town of Mount Pleasant and General Counsel for the Town of Hilton Head Island. With a foundation built on service, I am eager to bring forward-thinking solutions to the challenges of our times. Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office? Service Beyond Self. From my service in the U.S. Coast Guard to tackling complex issues for some of South Carolina's most notable municipalities, I've consistently put people first. This unwaivering commitment to public service is what drives my desire to serve South Carolina's 1st Congressional District in Washington. A New Era of Leadership. Representing a new generation doesn't just mean a change in age, but a change in vision and approach. I'm commitment to transparent and innovative leadership to find solutions to the challenges of our times. Actions Over Words. From the Coast Guard to serving our communities as a lawyer, I stand for leadership that doesn't just plan, but actively executes and delivers for every member of our community. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? Defending Women's Reproductive Rights. My maternal grandmother lost her life at age 32 in the 1960s following a backroom abortion because she was denied access to safe reproductive healthcare. Her story serves as a stark reminder of the dire consequences of denying women their right to choose. Her death forced my mother into a broken foster care system at age 5 1/2, further highlighting the impact of extreme abortion bans. I am staunchly committed to the codification of a federal protection guaranteeing women the right to make their own healthcare decisions. Strengthening Public Education. I believe that education forms the cornerstone of our society. We must urgently invest heavily in this area. I am an advocate for federal support in education, which includes increasing funding for public schools and elevating standards of education, ensuring every child has a chance for a brighter future. Championing Youth Engagement. The sit-in movement, which resulted in the Civil Rights Act of 1964, started with a few college students. I am a fervent believer in the potential of our younger generation. Every era has its defining challenge, and it appears that my generation is rallying around the dignity of the individual. I am committed to the inclusion of our nation's youth in shaping the future of America. Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy? The Past That Would Not Die, by Walter Lord. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? Integrity, transparency, and a dedication to public service. What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder? I am deeply compassionate and genuinely care about people and our communities. This compassion, however, does not detract from my determination or willpower. When faced with challenges or when advocating for the rights of our citizens, I am a fierce fighter. Throughout my life and career, I take with all seriousness responsibility that I am entrusted with. I believe in the sanctity of responsibility and the commitments that I am counted on to follow out. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? (1) To be a spokesperson for the district; to shine a spotlight on the people and communities that are thriving as well as those who need our support; and (2) to be an advocate, fighting for what the district needs. Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics? Yes, I think it is imperative. What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade? Managing technological advancements and climate change. Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives? No, I believe a 4 year term would be more effective and appropriate. What are your thoughts on term limits? I support term limits. Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking? Yes.\nNote: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it."}, {"question": "Campaign website", "answer_html": "<p>Deford’s campaign website stated the following:\n</p>\n<div style=\"height:400px;overflow:scroll;border:1px solid gray;margin:20px;padding:10px;\">\n<table data-nosnippet=\"\" style=\"border-collapse: collapse; border: none;background-color: transparent; auto; ;\">\n<tbody><tr>\n<td style=\"border:none; color:#B2B7F2;font-size:35px;font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-weight: bold; text-align: left; padding: 10px 3px;\" valign=\"top\" width=\"20\">“\n</td>\n<td style=\"border: none; padding: 4px 10px;\" valign=\"top\">\n<p>Unfortunately, our current representative in U.S. Congress, Nancy Mace, seems to lack authentic commitment to the Lowcountry. Her focus appears to be more on her personal objectives rather than addressing the concerns of her constituents. The disparity between her speeches on the Capitol steps and her voting record on the House floor has left many feeling disregarded and unrepresented. The Lowcountry deserves real leadership.\n</p><p><br/>\n</p><p>In Congress, Mac will prioritize the needs of the people as he has done throughout his life both in uniform and as a civilian. He will champion practical solutions that bring us together, enhance the security of our communities, and ensure a brighter future for our children. Here are several issues that Mac will tackle:\n</p><p><br/>\n</p>\n<ul><li><b>Equal access to quality education is a moral and national obligation we must meet. </b> Mac is dedicated to increasing teacher pay, getting politics out of the classroom, expanding access to broadband internet, and ensuring proper public school funding. South Carolina ranks near the bottom of the list when it comes to education, leaving our children among the least competitive in a modern, complex society. It is time for Congress to step up to the plate and help our children succeed.</li></ul>\n<p><br/>\n</p>\n<ul><li><b>Every human being should have affordable access to quality healthcare. </b> The Lowcountry is home to some of the most prestigious medical institutions in the Southeastern United States, yet many of our citizens lack access to basic healthcare services. Ensuring healthcare for all is not only a moral obligation, but it also fortifies a stronger country by promoting a healthier, more productive population, reducing the economic burden of preventable illness, and fostering social equality in healthcare access and outcomes. Mac will actively advocate for equal access to healthcare that expands coverage, addresses disparities in care, and invests in public health initiatives, thus bridging the gap between the Lowcountry’s esteemed medical institutions and the citizens in need of essential healthcare services.</li></ul>\n<p><br/>\n</p>\n<ul><li><b>You should be able to live where you work. </b> Mac will fight for legislation that promotes the development of attainable housing, including the facilitation of public-private partnerships. He will advocate for programs that cultivate collaboration between governments and the private sector, leading to innovative, economically viable, sustainable, and safe housing options for individuals and families seeking to reside in the communities in which they work.</li></ul>\n<p><br/>\n</p>\n<ul><li><b> Women should have control over their own bodies. </b> We should be standing up to big government interventions that are putting politicians between women and their physicians. Steadfast opposition to extreme abortion bans and severe criminal penalties, including the death sentence for abortions, is essential in preserving female reproductive rights and personal agency. Mac will fight to prevent these government overreaches by advocating for policies that protect and uphold women’s reproductive rights.</li></ul>\n<p><br/>\n</p>\n<ul><li><b> Everyone should feel safe in their communities. </b> It is time for Congress to act to implement common sense gun reform legislation, such as universal background checks and closing the Charleston loophole. As a former law enforcement officer, Mac is committed to strengthening support for law enforcement by advocating for enhanced training programs, improved community engagement initiatives, and equipping police officers with the necessary resources and skills to maintain public safety while fostering trust and positive relationships with the communities they serve.</li></ul>\n<p><br/>\n</p>\n<ul><li><b> We must devote ourselves to preserving our environment and battling climate change. </b> Mac will champion extensive environmental policies and forward-thinking strategies that tackle the complex dimensions of climate change, such as minimizing greenhouse gas emissions, encouraging the adoption of renewable energy, allocating resources to climate-resilient infrastructure, and safeguarding our natural ecosystems for a sustainable future.</li></ul>\n<p><br/>\n</p>\n<ul><li><b> The right to vote shall not be infringed. </b> As your representative, Mac will be firmly committed to safeguarding voting rights for all citizens by advocating for legislation that eliminates barriers to voting, ensures equal access to the ballot box, and combats voter suppression and discrimination. In doing so, Mac will support initiatives that modernize and streamline the voting process, such as expanding early voting and vote-by-mail options, ensuring that every citizen can participate in our democracy conveniently and securely, further reinforcing the fundamental right to vote.</li></ul>\n<p><br/>\n</p>\n<ul><li><b> The era of choosing leaders who foster bipartisanship and civility in government must begin now. </b> The reality TV-style of politics today is unsustainable and does not promote the well-being of our nation. Ultimately, we all share the same environment and desire a better future for the generations to come. Mac is dedicated to reviving a sense of bipartisanship and respectful discourse in the political arena.</li></ul>\n<p><sup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-quotedisclaimer_5-0\"><a href=\"#cite_note-quotedisclaimer-5\">[5]</a></sup>\n</p>\n</td>\n<td style=\"border: none; color: #B2B7F2; font-size: 35px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-weight: bold; text-align: right; padding: 10px 1px;\" valign=\"bottom\" width=\"20\">”\n</td></tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"cquotecite\" colspan=\"3\" style=\"border: none; padding-right: 4%\"><cite style=\"font-style: normal;font-size: smaller; float: right;\">—Mac Deford's campaign website (2024)<sup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-6\"><a href=\"#cite_note-6\">[6]</a></sup></cite>\n</td></tr></tbody></table>\n</div>", "answer_text": "Deford’s campaign website stated the following:\n“ Unfortunately, our current representative in U.S. Congress, Nancy Mace, seems to lack authentic commitment to the Lowcountry. Her focus appears to be more on her personal objectives rather than addressing the concerns of her constituents. The disparity between her speeches on the Capitol steps and her voting record on the House floor has left many feeling disregarded and unrepresented. The Lowcountry deserves real leadership. In Congress, Mac will prioritize the needs of the people as he has done throughout his life both in uniform and as a civilian. He will champion practical solutions that bring us together, enhance the security of our communities, and ensure a brighter future for our children. Here are several issues that Mac will tackle: Equal access to quality education is a moral and national obligation we must meet. Mac is dedicated to increasing teacher pay, getting politics out of the classroom, expanding access to broadband internet, and ensuring proper public school funding. South Carolina ranks near the bottom of the list when it comes to education, leaving our children among the least competitive in a modern, complex society. It is time for Congress to step up to the plate and help our children succeed. Every human being should have affordable access to quality healthcare. The Lowcountry is home to some of the most prestigious medical institutions in the Southeastern United States, yet many of our citizens lack access to basic healthcare services. Ensuring healthcare for all is not only a moral obligation, but it also fortifies a stronger country by promoting a healthier, more productive population, reducing the economic burden of preventable illness, and fostering social equality in healthcare access and outcomes. Mac will actively advocate for equal access to healthcare that expands coverage, addresses disparities in care, and invests in public health initiatives, thus bridging the gap between the Lowcountry’s esteemed medical institutions and the citizens in need of essential healthcare services. You should be able to live where you work. Mac will fight for legislation that promotes the development of attainable housing, including the facilitation of public-private partnerships. He will advocate for programs that cultivate collaboration between governments and the private sector, leading to innovative, economically viable, sustainable, and safe housing options for individuals and families seeking to reside in the communities in which they work. Women should have control over their own bodies. We should be standing up to big government interventions that are putting politicians between women and their physicians. Steadfast opposition to extreme abortion bans and severe criminal penalties, including the death sentence for abortions, is essential in preserving female reproductive rights and personal agency. Mac will fight to prevent these government overreaches by advocating for policies that protect and uphold women’s reproductive rights. Everyone should feel safe in their communities. It is time for Congress to act to implement common sense gun reform legislation, such as universal background checks and closing the Charleston loophole. As a former law enforcement officer, Mac is committed to strengthening support for law enforcement by advocating for enhanced training programs, improved community engagement initiatives, and equipping police officers with the necessary resources and skills to maintain public safety while fostering trust and positive relationships with the communities they serve. We must devote ourselves to preserving our environment and battling climate change. Mac will champion extensive environmental policies and forward-thinking strategies that tackle the complex dimensions of climate change, such as minimizing greenhouse gas emissions, encouraging the adoption of renewable energy, allocating resources to climate-resilient infrastructure, and safeguarding our natural ecosystems for a sustainable future. The right to vote shall not be infringed. As your representative, Mac will be firmly committed to safeguarding voting rights for all citizens by advocating for legislation that eliminates barriers to voting, ensures equal access to the ballot box, and combats voter suppression and discrimination. In doing so, Mac will support initiatives that modernize and streamline the voting process, such as expanding early voting and vote-by-mail options, ensuring that every citizen can participate in our democracy conveniently and securely, further reinforcing the fundamental right to vote. The era of choosing leaders who foster bipartisanship and civility in government must begin now. The reality TV-style of politics today is unsustainable and does not promote the well-being of our nation. Ultimately, we all share the same environment and desire a better future for the generations to come. Mac is dedicated to reviving a sense of bipartisanship and respectful discourse in the political arena. [5] ” —Mac Deford's campaign website (2024) [6]"}]