Tom Fernandez

Tom Fernandez is a politician currently serving as a member of the South Carolina Senate, representing the 39th District. A member of the Republican Party, he has been in office since 2024. Fernandez has a diverse educational background, holding degrees in political science, law, and business administration. His political career has included attempts to secure a seat in the South Carolina House of Representatives and various committee assignments in the Senate. He has been involved in notable legislative actions and has a history of engaging with constituents and the public.

Early life and career

Tom Fernandez was born on February 28, 1978, and spent his formative years on a farm in Michigan. This rural upbringing may have influenced his perspectives and values as he entered public life. He pursued higher education at Coastal Carolina University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science. His academic journey continued at the Charleston School of Law, where he obtained a Juris Doctor degree. Furthering his education, he completed a Master of Business Administration at The Citadel, a military college known for its leadership training and rigorous academic programs.

In addition to his educational pursuits, Fernandez has been active in community service. He became a board member of Central Berkeley Fire & EMS in 2023, demonstrating his commitment to public safety and local governance. His involvement in this organization reflects a broader interest in emergency services and community well-being.

Fernandez's early career included legal and business-related endeavors, but he gained public attention in 2021 when he received a settlement from the South Carolina Department of Transportation. The settlement, amounting to $315,000, stemmed from a lawsuit he filed against the agency for allegedly violating his First Amendment rights. This incident occurred after the SCDOT deleted a comment he made on their Facebook page and subsequently blocked him. Following the legal resolution, Fernandez chose to donate the remaining funds from the settlement to the Whitesville Rural Fire Department, indicating his support for local emergency services.

Legislative service

Fernandez's political career began with a bid for the South Carolina House of Representatives in 2018, where he challenged the incumbent Republican, Sylleste Davis. However, he was unsuccessful in the Republican primary, which did not deter him from pursuing a future in politics. His persistence paid off when he filed to run for the South Carolina Senate seat 39 on March 28, 2024. In this election, he successfully defeated the Democratic incumbent, Vernon Stephens, thereby flipping the seat to Republican control.

Since taking office, Fernandez has been an active member of several Senate committees, including Corrections and Penology, Education, Family and Veterans' Services, Judiciary, and Medical Affairs. His committee assignments suggest a focus on a range of issues, from public safety and education to health care and family services. These roles allow him to influence legislation and engage with various stakeholders in the state.

Fernandez's voting record has included significant and sometimes controversial decisions. For instance, in 2025, he voted against the confirmation of Dr. Edward Simmer as the head of the South Carolina Department of Public Health. His opposition was based on Simmer's public advocacy for COVID-19 vaccinations and his use of a face mask, which Fernandez viewed unfavorably. This vote highlights Fernandez's stance on public health measures during the pandemic and reflects a broader debate within the state regarding health policy.

In another notable legislative action, Fernandez voted in favor of Senate Bill 323 on November 18, 2025. This bill aimed to make abortion a felony in South Carolina, imposing severe penalties without exceptions for cases of sexual assault, incest, or fetal anomalies. The bill ultimately did not garner enough support to advance, but Fernandez's support for it underscores his alignment with certain conservative values regarding reproductive rights.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the South Carolina Senate representing the 39th District, Fernandez's policy focus encompasses a variety of issues pertinent to his constituents. His committee assignments indicate a commitment to addressing concerns related to corrections, education, family welfare, and medical affairs. This broad range of interests allows him to engage with diverse community needs and advocate for policies that align with his constituents' values.

Fernandez's district includes a mix of urban and rural areas, presenting unique challenges and opportunities. His background in political science and law, combined with his business education, equips him with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of state governance and advocate effectively for his district's interests. His engagement with local organizations, such as the Central Berkeley Fire & EMS, further illustrates his dedication to community service and public safety.

Throughout his legislative career, Fernandez has demonstrated a willingness to engage with his constituents, even in contentious situations. For example, he was involved in a public incident on June 14, 2025, when he was filmed responding to a protest in Summerville by honking his horn and making gestures. This incident, which he attributed to heckling from protesters, reflects the often contentious nature of political discourse and the challenges legislators face in maintaining public relations.

In summary, Tom Fernandez is a Republican member of the South Carolina Senate, representing the 39th District. His early life on a Michigan farm, combined with a robust educational background, has shaped his approach to public service. His legislative career has included significant committee roles and votes on contentious issues, reflecting his policy priorities and engagement with the community. As he continues to serve in the Senate, Fernandez remains a figure of interest in South Carolina politics, navigating the complexities of governance and constituent relations.