Name: Tim Scott

Age: 47

Party: Republican

Office you are seeking: U.S. House of Representatives, 1st Congressional District

Number of years living in the area you seek to represent: Born and raised in the district

Family: Single

Education: Bachelor of Science in political science from Charleston South University

Current occupation/employer: Congressman, U.S. House of Representatives

Employment, military and volunteer history: Owner, Tim Scott Allstate; partner, Pathway Real Estate Group. Divested interest in both upon election to U.S. House of Representatives. Volunteer for Seacoast Church, Board of Trustees; Trident United Way; Roper St. Francis Hospital Foundation Board; Trident Hospital Board; Midland Park Ministries Board; Allstate National Advisory Board; Heritage Trust FCU Board

Please list all public offices to which you've been elected, when and where: Charleston County Council, 1995-2008; S.C. House of Representatives 2008-2010; U.S. House of Representatives, 2011-present

Please list any unsuccessful candidacies for public office and when: None

Other prior political and government experience: None

Key endorsements you've received: National Federation of Independent Businesses; Defender of Economic Freedom Award from The Club for Growth; Spirit of Enterprise Award from U.S. Chamber of Commerce; Guardian of Senior's Rights Award by The 60 Plus Association; A+ on the Competitive Enterprise Institute's Labor Scorecard; Freedom Fighter Award from FreedomWorks; Thomas Jefferson Award for supporting free market principles from the International Foodservice Distributors Association; and Friend of The Farm Bureau

Contributions: $1,487,929 between Jan. 1, 2011 and Sept. 30

Expenditures: $1,036,426 between Jan. 1, 2011 and Sept. 30

Biggest contributor: 59 different individuals each donated $2,500 between Jan. 1 and Sept. 30

Why should people vote for you?

I am the only candidate with a track record of supporting legislation to cut spending, limit big government, and rein in the job crushing regulations that have damaged our economy. As a former small-business owner, I understand the obstacles we face as a nation, and I have consistently worked to create an environment that encourages success. I was born and raised here. I love South Carolina, I love the 1st District, and I will always do what is in the best interests of my constituents.

What are the three most important issues you would address if elected? How?

While it is clear we must reform our nation's broken entitlement systems, we cannot do so at the expense of current seniors. I will not support any changes to Medicare or Social Security that affect seniors or those within 10 years of retiring. We must instead keep our promises to them while revamping these programs so they can remain viable in the future.

What specific steps will you take to make government more open and accessible to the public?

As a member of the Transition Team for the House Majority, we created the 3-Day Rule so the American people can view every bill that is coming to the floor for a vote before it comes to the floor. My website provides access to every vote I take in the House. I communicate on Twitter and Facebook every day in order to stay in close contact with my constituents when in Washington. Our doors are always open, and we answer every piece of mail or email received. I've always said that sunshine is the best disinfectant, and the more open we make the process, the better off we will all be.

Have you ever been convicted of a crime (felony), been disciplined by a professional licensing board or organization or had an ethics violation filed against you? If so, please give the details. No

Have you ever filed for bankruptcy, been delinquent on your federal, state or local taxes? If so, please give the details. No

Are there any personal details about yourself that voters would be interested in knowing?

I am a member of several caucuses as a member of the House including the Anti-Terrorism Caucus, Joint Strike Fighter Caucus, Ports Caucus, Military Veterans Caucus, Constitution Caucus, Coalition for Autism Research Education, Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus, Defense Community Caucus, Navy and Marine Corps Caucus, Travel and Tourism Caucus. I also serve on The Elected Leadership Committee.