South Carolina Senator Roger Nutt Resigns After Alzheimer's Diagnosis

South Carolina State Senator Roger Nutt, representing District 12 which includes parts of Spartanburg and Greenville counties, announced his resignation effective January 2026 after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Nutt, 59, initially sought medical care for what he believed were long COVID symptoms before receiving the diagnosis. He has served in the State Senate since 2024, following a tenure in the State House from 2021 to 2024 and a decade on the Spartanburg County Council. Nutt expressed deep sadness but faith in facing the diagnosis, describing his Senate service as a dream come true. State Representative Bobby Cox has announced plans to run for Nutt’s Senate seat and has resigned from his own seat to allow for a concurrent special election, with filings opening in late August, primaries in October, and a general election in December. Colleagues praised Nutt’s dedication and work ethic, emphasizing support for him and his family during this challenging time.