COLUMBIA, S.C. — State Rep. Anthony Romeo D’Savauchi, a 41-year-old combat Marine veteran and former federal prosecutor, announced Thursday that he is launching a longshot campaign for Governor of South Carolina, positioning himself as a bipartisan reformer in a state dominated by Republican leadership. D’Savauchi, a centrist Democrat from the Lowcountry, said his campaign will focus on public safety, economic opportunity, and restoring trust in state government. Speaking to a small crowd of supporters in Columbia, he framed his candidacy as a challenge to what he called “career politicians who have lost touch with working families.” “I’m not a career insider,” D’Savauchi said. “I’m a veteran, a prosecutor, and a dad who believes South Carolina can be stronger, safer, and fairer if we stop playing partisan games.” Though considered an underdog in a deep-red state, D’Savauchi enters the race with a unique base of support. He has drawn praise from civil rights organizations, agricultural advocacy groups, and veteran communities. Political analysts say his crossover appeal — particularly his popularity among Black voters and working-class White voters — makes him a potential disruptor in a crowded field. D’Savauchi’s record in the state legislature includes backing a bipartisan crime bill, supporting increased funding for rural hospitals, and advocating for higher wages for low-income workers. On social issues, he holds religiously based opposition to abortion while supporting medical exceptions, a stance that has attracted both support and criticism from party activists. His campaign faces significant obstacles, including limited name recognition statewide and an uphill fundraising battle. Still, D’Savauchi said he is prepared for the challenge. “I didn’t learn to quit in combat, and I’m not quitting on South Carolina now,” he said. The race for governor is expected to draw national attention as parties battle for influence across the South.