Notable Past Clients
Over the years, Just Getting Started Strategies has supported a diverse range of candidates—from first-time city council hopefuls to statewide and congressional campaigns. Each client brings a unique story and purpose, and the firm takes pride in helping them build strong foundations, connect directly with voters, and run authentic, community-driven campaigns that reflect the values of the people they serve.
Peter Smith, Jr.
Dorchester County Council
Peter Smith Jr. triumphed in the special election for Dorchester County Council District 1 on March 25, 2025, winning with a commanding 65% of the vote in a heavily Republican district where President Trump won by double digits, to secure the seat’s remainder through November 2026. He was officially sworn in on April 9, 2025, as the district’s newest council representative—and his victory was celebrated by local Democrats as a significant flip for the Lowcountry
Mac Deford
Congressional District 1
Mac Deford ran an extraordinary 2024 Democratic primary in South Carolina’s 1st Congressional District. Despite being outraised and outspent nearly two to one, Mac closed the gap and came within just a few hundred votes of victory.
Katie Crosby
SC State House
Katie Crosby significantly narrowed the gap in her two consecutive bids for South Carolina House District 44. In the 2022 general election, she earned 35.5% of the vote against Mike Neese, despite analysts saying she would not get more than 33% of the vote due to redistricting. By 2024, her support had grown—raising her share to 38.9%, bringing her closer to a competitive standing despite the district’s lean toward the incumbent. Her progress underscores both her persistence and capacity to build momentum across election cycles.
Lisa Ellis
State Superintendent
Lisa Ellis ran a remarkable campaign for South Carolina State Superintendent of Education in 2022. Not only did she raise over $300,000 in campaign funds, but she also secured 722,013 votes—outpacing the Democratic candidate for governor, who raised over $3 million. Her campaign featured the strongest statewide field operation of the cycle, mobilizing volunteers and activating people who had never before participated in a political campaign—building new grassroots power across the state.
