SC state senator resigns after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease
State Sen. Roger Nutt, who just finished his first year in the upper chamber, is resigning from office after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
Nutt, a Spartanburg County Republican, was elected in 2024 to succeed state Sen. Scott Talley, who did not run for reelection.
Before the Senate, Nutt served in the House from 2021-2024. Before then, Nutt served on the Spartanburg County Council for 10 years.
“After seeking medical care for what I believed were long-Covid symptoms, I was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease,” Nutt said in news release announcing his resignation. “While we are saddened by this news, we will face this trial with faith in the grace of God that has sustained our lives, our marriage and my career in public service for nearly fifteen years.”
Nutt’s resignation will trigger a special election.
State Rep. Bobby Cox, R-Greenville, said he plans to run in that election, and is resigning from his own seat to allow for a concurrent special election.
“Roger is not only my senator, he is my friend,” Cox said in a statement. “We lift him and his family up in prayer during this challenging time, and we owe him a tremendous debt of gratitude for his years of leadership and devotion to our community.”
Filing to run for both seats is now expected to be later this month, with a primary election in October and a special general election in December, the election commission said.
