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The Advocates: Chamber PAC Endorses Frankie Staropoli for Dorchester County Council District 6 Special Election

The Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee (PAC) is pleased to announce its endorsement of Frankie Staropoli for Dorchester County Council District 6.

The seat became vacant following Bill Hearn’s elevation from council member to County Attorney. We greatly appreciate Bill’s years of service on the council. With this open seat comes an important opportunity, and in Frankie, we see a candidate who is ready to step up and deliver for both the residents and the business community of Dorchester County.

About the Endorsement Process

As with all Chamber PAC endorsements, Frankie was closely vetted through our established review process, which includes a written questionnaire and an interview with members of our PAC Board. All filed candidates were invited to participate. Endorsed candidates demonstrate a strong ability to serve effectively and exhibit clear alignment with the Chamber’s key policy priorities and a compelling vision for the future of our region.

Why Frankie Staropoli

The Chamber PAC endorses candidates who demonstrate a clear understanding of what it takes to build and sustain a thriving regional economy. Frankie meets that standard. As a longtime Dorchester County resident and businessman, he brings a results-oriented perspective to the issues that matter most to our business community. His platform reflects a candidate who has thought seriously about the county’s long-term trajectory.

Frankie’s priorities align directly with the Chamber’s mission to advance a prosperous business environment across the Charleston region. He understands that economic development is not simply about saying yes to growth but about being strategic.

His commitment to recruiting employers that strengthen the tax base and add long-term value reflects the kind of intentional, quality-focused development philosophy the Chamber has long championed. Paired with his dedication to expanding infrastructure in step with that growth, Frankie recognizes that businesses and residents alike depend on a county government that plans ahead rather than one that plays catch-up.

Equally important is his understanding that a strong economy requires a strong pipeline of talent. His commitment to deepening the county’s relationships with its local school districts speaks directly to one of the Chamber’s highest priorities: ensuring that students in our region graduate prepared to enter and contribute to our workforce. A county council member who treats education as an economic issue is a genuine partner for the business community, and that is exactly what we see in him.

The Chamber PAC is proud to endorse Frankie Staropoli for Dorchester County Council District 6.

We encourage all eligible voters to cast their ballot for Frankie on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. Polls are open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

To learn more about Frankie’s campaign, visit frankieforcouncil.com.

If you would like to contribute to the Chamber PAC and support this meaningful work, please click here or email sbarhight@charlestonchamber.org.

One of the most impactful ways to support the business community is by voting for candidates who will strengthen our regional economy.

Mel Carter, Business Advocacy Manager, State & Local Government

Posted on
February 27th 2026
Written by
Justin Allen
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