Hilton Head man to run as third-party candidate against U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson

Marc Beaman, president of Construction Associated and a resident of Palmetto Dunes on Hilton Head Island, is running as a Constitution Party candidate, a group whose primary focus is "returning government to the U.S. Constitution's provisions and limitations."

Rob Miller of Lady's Island is the Democratic candidate for the 2nd Congressional District.

Beaman, 56, said the party provides no funding, but advises him on filing deadlines and other strategies.

"If there are enough third-party candidates, it might shake up the major parties," Beaman said, adding that given the cost of campaigning, incumbents now are beholden to those who contribute.

"I've voted for Wilson, but I listen to what he says and then I check in the Congressional Record to see how he voted and they don't match," Beaman said. "He has to answer to the party, not us."

Although Beaman was nominated by the state Constitution Party in May, he kept his campaign low key to see if people wanted him to run.

"I've driven every road between Columbia and here, handing out flyers at grocery stores and convenience stores," Beaman said. "I've spoken to hundreds of people."

Beaman has never held elected office but started a soup kitchen at Christian Renewal Church on Hilton Head.

"I want to help people," he said.

The Constitution Party's platform, according to its website, is for states' rights and the Second Amendment and is opposed to abortion, open borders, U.S. policy being dictated by the United Nations, undeclared and unconstitutional wars such as Iraq and Afghanistan, and free trade, including NAFTA.

To learn more about Marc Beaman, visit www.beaman4congress.com or call 843-681-6508.