Republican Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina has announced his candidacy for the 2024 presidential election
Scott made his announcement at Charleston Southern University, his alma mater, and highlighted his rise from poverty to prosperity
He filed a Statement of Candidacy with the Federal Election Commission on May 20, 2023, and has been endorsed by Senator John Thune
Scott is the only Black Republican senator in the U.S. Senate and has long espoused conservative views while talking frankly about race and his experiences as a Black man in America
Scott's campaign will likely focus on themes of optimism and opportunity, and he has said that America is not a racist country
Scott faces several challengers for the Republican nomination, including former President Donald Trump and former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley
He previously announced a presidential exploratory committee in April, which allowed him to raise money without the strict scrutiny of the FEC
Scott's candidacy has generated significant attention, as he is seen as a rising star in the Republican Party
His poll numbers are currently low, however, and he will need to overcome rivals like Trump in order to secure the nomination