Mike Reichenbach (politician)
American politician from South Carolina
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Mike Reichenbach is an American businessman and politician serving as a member of the South Carolina Senate, representing District 31 (Darlington and Florence Counties).[1] He is the Republican nominee for lieutenant governor in the 2026 election.
Mike Reichenbach | |
|---|---|
Reichenbach speaking during a change of command ceremony | |
| Member of the South Carolina Senate from the 31st district | |
| Assumed office April 4, 2022 | |
| Preceded by | Hugh Leatherman |
| Personal details | |
| Born | October 29, 1971 Lima, Ohio, U.S. |
| Party | Republican |
| Spouse |
Charisse Reichenbach
(m. 1996) |
| Children | 2 |
| Education | Bowling Green State University (BA) University of Michigan (MBA) |
Reichenbach was first elected through a special election after the passing of Hugh Leatherman.
Early life, education and career
Reichenbach was born to a 14 year old mother, who gave him up for adoption. He owns car dealerships in Florence and Hilton Head Island.[2]
In 1994, Reichenbach graduated from Bowling Green State University and in 2000 earned an MBA from the University of Michigan.[3]
Political career
South Carolina Senate
Elections
2022 special election
After the death of incumbent Senator Hugh Leatherman in 2021, a special election was set for March 29, 2022. Reichenbach announced,[4][5] and defeated state Rep. Jay Jordan, R-Florence, in the GOP primary, held January 24, 2022.[6] Reichenbach went on to defeat Democratic Party nominee Suzanne La Rochelle in the special election.[7][8] He was sworn in on April 5, 2022.[9]
Tenure
Reichenbach serves on following Committees:[1]
- Agriculture and Natural Resources
- Corrections and Penology
- Family and Veterans' Services
- Fish, Game and Forestry
- Judiciary
2024 election
In 2024, Reichenbach defeated Democratic challenger, Former Florence County Magistrate Judge Belinda Timmons.[10][11][12]
2026 lieutenant gubernatorial campaign
Further information: 2026 South Carolina gubernatorial election
On January 9, 2026, Alan Wilson, South Carolina Attorney General and gubernatorial candidate, announced his selection of Reichenbach as his running mate choice for Lieutenant governor.[13]
