James B. Edwards

U.S. Secretary of Energy James Edwards of South Carolina

James B. Edwards (June 24, 1927 – December 26, 2014) was an American politician and member of the Republican Party who served as the Governor of South Carolina from 1975 to 1979 and later as the United States Secretary of Energy from 1981 to 1982 under President Ronald Reagan. Edwards was notable for being the first Republican to be elected as governor of South Carolina since the Reconstruction era.

Early Life and Education

James Burrows Edwards was born in Hawthorne, Florida and later moved to South Carolina, where he pursued his education. He earned a degree in Dentistry from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry in 1955, after which he served in the United States Maritime Service and the United States Navy Reserve, achieving the rank of captain.

Political Career

Edwards' political career began with his election to the South Carolina Senate in 1972, where he served until his gubernatorial campaign in 1974. His election as governor marked a significant shift in South Carolina's political landscape, emphasizing conservative fiscal policies and advocating for economic development and education reform.

During his tenure as governor, Edwards focused on attracting foreign investment and improving the state's education system. He was also known for his efforts to preserve the state's historical and natural heritage, including the establishment of the South Carolina Heritage Trust Program.

After serving as governor, Edwards was appointed by President Ronald Reagan as the Secretary of Energy in 1981, a position he held until 1982. In this role, Edwards advocated for deregulation of the energy market and supported increased use of nuclear energy.

Later Life and Legacy

After leaving public office, Edwards returned to South Carolina, where he became the president of the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) in 1982, a position he held until his retirement in 1999. Under his leadership, MUSC expanded significantly, both in terms of its physical campus and its reputation as a leading medical institution.

James B. Edwards passed away on December 26, 2014, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneer of the Republican movement in South Carolina and a respected leader in both politics and education.

See Also

• List of Governors of South Carolina
• United States Secretary of Energy
• Republican Party (United States)
• Ronald Reagan