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Joe Burgett inspecting a bridge with a drone

Building a South Carolina That Works

Our community deserves a government that works for people over politics. I believe in practical solutions that deliver results—not headlines—with a focus on our roads, our schools, and real transparency. As a neighbor, husband, father, foster-dad, contractor, and professor, I’ve seen what happens when systems stop working. It’s time to move South Carolina forward with an approach rooted in innovation, accountability, and community values.
LIST OF ISSUES
Better Roads & Bridges
Reliable roads and safe bridges aren’t optional — they’re the backbone of our economy and everyday life. In Pickens County, we’ve seen infrastructure fail, and that’s unacceptable. Drawing on my experience working with the South Carolina Department of Transportation and using data, drones, and technology, I know we can build smarter—not just spend more. We’ll bring innovation, accountability, and value back into transportation. Your tax dollars should deliver roads that last, bridges that are safe, and projects that are on time and on budget.
Support Our Schools
Every child in our community deserves a strong start and a bright future. As a father of three and someone whose wife works with students at Daniel High School, I believe our schools should prepare students for success—whether that’s being college-ready or career-ready. We’ll invest in teachers, support DSS caseworkers, and ensure schools have the tools they need to succeed. Together, we’ll build an education system that lifts up every child and strengthens every family.
More Transparency in Government
Government shouldn’t feel distant or confusing—it should be clear, accountable, and responsive to you. That means open budgets, public dashboards, and clear metrics so you can judge results for yourself. Whether it’s infrastructure projects, education funding, or judicial rulings, we’ll insist on clarity, oversight, and real consequences when things fall short. Because you deserve to see how your money is used—and the results you get.
Making Elections Work for the People
Our democracy works best when voters—not politicians—are in charge. It’s time to fix our systems so they reflect the voices of our communities. I support independent redistricting commissions so maps represent people, not parties. I back reforms like ranked-choice voting and reasonable term limits to ensure fresh ideas, not entrenched power. Let’s put people over parties and restore trust in our elections by ensuring every voice counts and every vote matters.
Responsible Use of AI
AI isn't coming...it's here, and we need to be ready for it. As a professor and researcher, I believe we can use AI responsibly to make government faster, smarter, and more efficient—while protecting human oversight and privacy. In schools, AI should be a tool after students master the fundamentals—not a replacement. And in government, it should help employees help you—not replace them. Because when used right, AI can be a powerful partner for progress; when used wrong, it can undermine trust. I want to bring innovation with accountability.
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