Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, a Republican, has now reportedly made a significant step toward a White House bid on Wednesday by establishing a presidential exploratory committee.
Scott made the announcement via a video he released on Wednesday morning.
The senator shot his video near Fort Sumter National Monument, the island fort that once protected Charleston, South Carolina, and was the site of the Civil War’s first engagement.
Scott, who grew up in the Charleston region, is establishing his presidential exploratory committee on the 162nd anniversary of the commencement of the Civil War.
An exploratory committee will allow Mr. Scott, who would enter the GOP primary with almost $21.8 million in his Senate account, to raise money directly for a 2024 campaign and get greater national exposure before making a formal presidential declaration.
He will host a donor retreat in Charleston this weekend, where he is anticipated to inform his top funders on his intentions.
Supporters have already formed a super PAC to promote Mr. Scott.
Mr. Scott’s history, oratory talents, and status as the top-ranking Black Republican in Congress have put him on numerous Republican short lists for vice president.
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