Stavrinakis, Merrill Endorse Riley

Charleston area State Representatives Leon Stavrinakis (D-Charleston) and Jim Merrill (R-Charleston) endorsed Charleston Mayor Joe Riley for election to a 10th term on Saturday.

Stavrinakis, whose district covers much of West Ashley, John's Island, Kiawha and Seabrook, said Riley is a proven leader.

"Mayor Riley has shown time and time again that he is a relentless advocate for our community, and we are better off because of his leadership." Stavrinakis wrote in a press release. "We've been through tough times before, and Mayor Riley has always been there to guide us through it. I look forward to working with Mayor Riley to ensure that Charleston's best days are still ahead of us."

"No one fights harder for Charleston than Joe Riley," Merrill wrtoe. "Charleston is the best city in the country to do business, raise a family, and take a vacation. Joe Riley is at the heart of why Charleston is so special. He has earned our support."

Merrill's District 99 includes Daniel Island, part of Mount Pleasant, Cainhoy and part of North Charleston.