Signs Point to Lee Bright Challenge of Graham in 2014

Sen. Lee Bright (R - Spartanburg) spoke to the USC branch of Student for Concealed Carry Monday evening in Columbia. As the father of a daughter who will go to college next year, the issue of campus safety is one that Bright takes seriously. And given that USC has had its share of campus safety issues in the past year, it's no surprise turnout was strong.

Bright told the students that the bill he'd proposed in the Senate has a ways to go before it passes, but called on them to be vocal in support of their own safety. He argued that students who could conceivably be sent overseas to defend their country ought to be able to defend themselves on their own soil.

The talk then turned to Bright's political future. It's been one of the state's worst kept secrets that Bright is weighing a challenge to Sen. Lindsey Graham in 2014. 

Bright acknowledged that beating Graham is an uphill battle, but he believes that Graham's killings, will catch up with him.

The biggest barrier to challenging Graham, Bright said, is raising money, But he has been traveling the state in a recent months, weighing support. He also believes that many of the same people who backed Ron Paul in 2012 will back his candidacy.

Nancy Mace, a Lowcountry consultant, is also reported to be considering a challenge to Graham. She too could attract the attention of Paul supporters.

In mounting a campaign, Bright compared himself to Jim DeMint whose first bid for office also was considered a long shot. 

In speaking to the USC students Bright referred to Sens. Ted Cruz and Mike Lee, both of whom benefited from DeMint's support. “I see their success and I see the country has a chance,” Bright said.

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