Nikki Haley Won't Take Jim DeMint's Senate Seat

Nikki Haley Won't Take Jim DeMint's Senate Seat

South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley (R) will not be appointing herself to Sen. Jim DeMint's (R) seat when he leaves Congress to lead the Heritage Foundation, quieting speculation that she might do so.

In a statement released on Friday morning, Haley said she would appoint someone who has "the same philosophy of government that Jim DeMint and I share":

Appointing a new member of the U.S. Senate is a solemn duty, and I take this responsibility with utmost seriousness. I will make this decision in a manner that is thoughtful and dignified, but also quickly.

I want to make two things clear from the outset. Number one, I will not take the appointment myself. Number two, I will appoint a person who has the same philosophy of government that Jim DeMint and I share.

With all the challenges we face as a state and nation, it is essential that the next senator from South Carolina be dedicated to the principles that our state most values.

On Thursday, DeMint announced he would be leaving the Senate to take over the preeminent conservative think tank in Washington, D.C.

Speculation quickly swirled around who would take his place in the Senate, with Rep. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) being frequently mentioned.

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