Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina announced he will run for reelection in 2028, reversing a prior commitment that his 2022 campaign would be his final term, according to comments published Wednesday by The Post and Courier in Charleston.

Scott, 60, clarified that his earlier statements about a final campaign had referred to 2028, not 2022. He has long supported term limits and previously committed to completing former Sen. Jim DeMint’s term and serving two full six-year terms.

The decision is expected to reshape the political landscape in South Carolina, where a potential open Senate seat had drawn interest from other Republican contenders. Democratic Party Chair Christale Spain criticized the reversal as breaking a widely reported pledge.

Scott has built a high-profile career, becoming the first African American to serve in both chambers of Congress and previously representing South Carolina’s 1st Congressional District before his Senate appointment. He maintains strong approval ratings, including 62% among registered voters statewide and 93% among Republicans.

Nationally, Scott has been active in GOP politics, campaigning for Senate candidates in battleground states during the 2024 cycle and once being considered as a potential vice presidential pick before President Donald Trump selected JD Vance.

His decision to run again follows a South Carolina pattern in which long-serving senators often gain greater political influence and leadership roles.