Councilman John Wright, Jr. Will Not Seek Reelection
Greg Wilson/Anderson Observer
Anderson County Councilman John B. Wright, Jr., who serves district one, announced Monday he will not run again when his term ends at the end of 2024.
“I don’t think I am done with politics,” said Wright, “but what is most important to me right now is spending more time with my family.”
The father of three sons, Brazeal, seven, Ballard, five and Jack, one, Wright said he looks forward to coaching his sons’ teams and having more family time during their formative years.
The 36-year-old Wright, president of McCoy Wright Commercial Real Estate, said he had considered a run for the South Carolina House or Senate this year, but decided there would be time for another run at public service when his children were a little older.
“Time goes by quickly, and I am starting to see that, especially with the oldest son, Brazeal,” said Wright. “It’s been a hard decision, but my family, first, and business take a lot of time and those are the things I am focusing on.”
Wright was elected to the county council district one seat in 2020, filling the seat vacated by Craig Wooten.
Wright said moving he will continue to serve the community.
“I am going to continue to work to make Anderson a better place to live, raise a family and start a business.”
He also said he plans to “finish this year strong” working with council on economic development and helping educate the public on the upcoming penny sales tax for roads referendum question.
Wright said he is proud of his work for his district, including getting roads repaired, as well as helping the entire county with economic development, improvements at KidVenture and the Civic Center amphitheater, and being a part of such initiatives as the countywide Emergency Management System which went into effect in Sept. 2021.
County leaders say Wright will be missed.
“John has been an amazingly effective and caring county council person and moved Anderson County forward,” said Anderson County Administrator Rusty Burns. “He will be seriously missed but we can understand desire to spend more time with his family.”
“It is a pleasure and honor to serve with Mr. Wright,” said County Council Vice Chairman Brett Sanders. “His conservatism, common sense and business skill set will be missed. He is and will continue to be a great asset to Anderson County. I wish him the best and I am happy to call him a friend.“
