Russell Fry sworn in as S.C. House 106 representative

Russell Fry was sworn in Saturday as the new state representative for the South Strand.

The 30-year-old attorney defeated Horry County Councilman Tyler Servant in last month’s Republican Primary for the S.C. House District 106 seat. He was unopposed in Tuesday’s general election.

On Saturday afternoon, Fry took the oath of office at the Surfside Beach Town Council Chambers. He was sworn in by House Speaker Jay Lucas.

Fry claimed the post vacated by Nelson Hardwick, who resigned in May after 10 years in the seat amid allegations that he harassed a female House staffer.

Although Fry is new to public office, he’s worked for years behind the scenes assisting in local and state political campaigns.

As for his early goals, Fry plans to join other lawmakers in searching for ways to improve the state’s roads and infrastructure, particularly the thoroughfares in Horry County.

“That’s what I’ve heard all along from constituents,” he said. “That’s priority No. 1.”

This story was originally published September 19, 2015 at 7:59 PM with the headline "Russell Fry sworn in as S.C. House 106 representative."