Mark Sanford Suspends SC 1st District Campaign

Former South Carolina Governor and Congressman Mark Sanford suspended his campaign for the state's 1st Congressional District on Thursday, just weeks after entering the race, announcing plans to launch a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the national debt.

Sanford, 65, filed to run on the last day of candidate filing earlier this month, joining a crowded Republican primary field to succeed incumbent Rep. Nancy Mace, who is seeking the governorship. The coastal district, rated as solidly Republican, features other prominent GOP contenders including retired Rep. Mark Smith, Air Force Lt. Col. Alex Pelbath and physician Sam McCown. The primary is scheduled for June 9.

In a statement, Sanford explained his decision as a shift toward greater impact outside elected office. "After a lot of thought, I've concluded that the most effective way I can contribute right now is not by seeking office, but by helping build a broader movement focused on the country's financial future," he said. He told the Associated Press he aims to create a grassroots group based in South Carolina, leveraging contacts and over $1.3 million remaining in his federal campaign account from his last...