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South Carolina ballot
Photo of Zyon Khalifa

Zyon Khalifa

DemocraticFirst-time candidate

Zyon Khalifa, a Democrat and Air Force veteran with a law degree, is running for the U.S. House from South Carolina's 2nd District in his first run. He emphasizes expanding economic opportunity and restoring trust in government.

From the candidate’s published profile

Background

Zyon Khalifa served in the U.S. Air Force from 2020 to 2025. Khalifa graduated from Silver Bluff High School. Khalifa earned a bachelor's degree from the University of South Carolina in 2023 and a law degree from the Southern University Law Center in 2026.[1]

Law:
Southern University Law Center, 2026
Bachelor's:
University of South Carolina, 2023
High school:
Silver Bluff High School

In their own words

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Zyon Khalifa is a next-generation leader running to represent South Carolina’s 2nd Congressional District with a focus on putting people over politics. A South Carolina native and graduate of both Silver Bluff High School and the University of South Carolina, Khalifa is committed to investing in the communities that raised him.

Bringing a fresh perspective, Khalifa’s campaign is centered on expanding opportunity, strengthening economic mobility, protecting individual freedoms, and ensuring that government is responsive to everyday people, not just special interests. His background in law and public service reflects a commitment to justice, accountability, and real solutions that meet the moment.

As a member of a new generation stepping into leadership, Khalifa is focused on engaging voters who have historically been overlooked, especially young people, while building coalitions across communities to create lasting change. His campaign is grounded in a simple idea: the future of South Carolina should be shaped by those who are willing to fight for it.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

I’m running because it’s time for leadership that reflects the people living today, not decades ago. As a Gen Z candidate who grew up in this district, I understand the challenges families are facing right now: rising costs, limited opportunities, and feeling overlooked by those in power. I bring the energy, accessibility, and perspective needed to connect with all voters and move our district forward.Too many people in our communities feel like they have to leave to succeed. I’m running to change that. I will fight to expand economic opportunities, support small businesses, improve infrastructure, and ensure that every family, no matter where they live, has access to the resources they need to build a stable and successful future right here at home.Washington is too focused on division and not focused enough on results. I’m committed to putting people first, working across differences to deliver real solutions on issues like healthcare access, affordability, and public safety. This campaign is about restoring trust and making sure government works for those it’s supposed to serve.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am most passionate about expanding economic opportunity, improving healthcare access, protecting data privacy, and advancing criminal justice reform.

I believe success should not require leaving your community, which is why I support investments in job creation, small businesses, and workforce development. I am committed to ensuring affordable, accessible healthcare for all, especially in underserved areas.

As technology evolves, I support strong data privacy protections so individuals have control over their personal information. I also advocate for a fair and accountable criminal justice system that promotes both public safety and rehabilitation.

On the 2026 ballot

Links

Compiled from the candidate’s published profile as of September 30, 2026.

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